Hill train to undergo tests
The Star Online, 7 January 2014
Hitting a high note: The peak attracted a record number of 1,233,556 visitors last year.
THE Penang Hill funicular train service will be closed until Jan 14 for inspection and maintenance.
Services would resume on Jan 15, said Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) promotion and marketing division manager Baharin Annuar Abu Bakar.
He said the closure was to ensure that services would remain efficient, comfortable and reliable.
“The inspection and maintenance works will be carried out by our staff under the supervision of train manufacturer Garaventa AG and the service will be inspected by the Occupational Safety and Health Department.
“The works include inspection and tests on the trains, tracks, electrical and mechanical systems as well as readiness on Emergency Response Plan,” he said in a press conference at the lower station yesterday.
Baharin said that Penang Hill attracted 1,233,556 visitors last year.
“We had 28,817 more visitors compared with the 2012’s figure.
“On Aug 9, we recorded 10,301 visitors going up Penang Hill, the highest number in a single day,” he added.
The higher volume of visitors last year, he said, was due to the improvement of facilities and activities uphill since the introduction of the new funicular train in May 2011.
He added that the new car park near the lower station had helped eased traffic congestion, even over the holiday season.
“The increasing popularity of Penang Hill is in line with our PHC vision to be the hill resort of choice in Malaysia.
“Visitors can also expect more facilities and activities, especially during the Visit Malaysia Year 2014.
“We look forward to another good year,” he said.
Also present was PHC executive consultant Datuk Ir Ang Choo Hong.
More information on Penang Hill can be viewed at www.penanghill.gov.my.
