This collage captures a monumental chapter in Malaysian history: the opening of the Penang Bridge in 1985. It wasn't just a feat of engineering; it was a symbol of national pride and the rapid modernization of the country.
Key Highlights of the Moment
- The VIPs: You can see Malaysia's 4th Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, and his wife, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah, standing proudly in the foreground. Dr. Mahathir was the driving force behind this project, which was part of his vision to industrialize Malaysia.
- The Car: That car they are standing with is the Proton Saga, Malaysia's first national car. It was launched in the same year (1985), and Dr. Mahathir famously drove a red Proton Saga across the bridge during the opening ceremony to link two of his biggest "mega-projects" together.
- The Bridge Structure: The background shows the iconic cable-stayed middle span. At the time of its completion, it was the longest bridge in Southeast Asia and the third longest in the world, spanning 13.5 kilometers.
Fun Facts About the Opening
| Feature | Detail |
| Official Opening | September 14, 1985 |
| Construction Time | Approximately 3.5 years |
| Connecting Points | Perai (Mainland) to Gelugor (Island) |
| Historical Significance | It ended the total reliance on the Penang ferry system for vehicle transport. |
Note: The bottom-right photo shows the final stages of construction/paving, giving a great "behind-the-scenes" look at the massive scale of the asphalt work required for the four-lane dual carriageway.
Google Gemini AI
2/2/2026: 4.38 p.m
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