Penang’s new ferries may come into service as early as June 2023.
This is following a visit by the Penang Port Commission (PPC) delegation which recently visited two sites in Vietnam to check on the progress of the ferries being built there for them.
Presently, the ferries are at 40% completion stage and are expected to undergo sea trials in May 2023.
The delegation was headed by their chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng accompanied by representatives of the Ministry of Transport and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB).
The objective of the visit was to ensure the prompt delivery schedule of the ferries.
Earlier, PPSB had called for an open tender for interested parties to submit their proposals.
A total of 36 companies had submitted their applications (23 local companies and 13 foreign companies).
Nine companies were shortlisted and Dutch company, Damen Shipyards Gorinchem B.V. was the selected candidate as they met all requirements and conditions.
Penang Port Commission will provide updates on the progress of the new ferries from time to time.
They also hope to offer the best service to ferry passengers with the new ferries and further add to the economic development of the state.