Parking in Penang is ‘Out of Control’

The Consumers’ Association of Penang strongly urges the MBPP and the Traffic Police to promptly address the issue of motorists who disregard parking laws, including parking in no-parking zones and haphazard locations. Our recent survey conducted across various roads in Penang, notably Jalan Utama, Jalan Residency, Jalan Logan, Penang Road, Market Street, Penang Street, Beach Street, and several areas in Air Itam, revealed a trend of motorists parking without considering other road users, thereby posing dangers and inconveniences.

The situation has escalated to a chronic level, particularly evident in Jalan Residency (near the Penang General Hospital), where cars are frequently found parked along the road despite the double yellow lines.

CAP has also identified several public parking lots where large barrels, plastic chairs, flower pots, or other items obstruct parking spaces. Moreover, vehicles encroaching on pavements and bus stops exacerbate the congestion issues already prevalent on Penang’s roads, causing undue problems for commuters.

Lack of parking, mostly in George Town, has led to illegal parking and traffic congestion in the area. Therefore, CAP also proposes to limit parking time in public parking lots so that those who use the space throughout the day are prevented from doing so.

In light of these issues, CAP urgently calls upon the MBPP and the Traffic Police to intensify enforcement efforts and take decisive action against motorists who violate parking regulations and park indiscriminately. Swift and robust measures are imperative to ensure the safety and convenience of all road users in Penang.

Mohideen Abdul Kader
President
Consumers Association of  Penang (CAP)

Press Statement, 14 May 2024