WISE Highway Project May Get Six-Month Extension To Strengthen Financial

The West Ipoh Span Expressway (WISE) project could be given more time to move forward, with the Ministry of Works (KKR) considering a six-month extension after the project’s principal approval period ends in September 2026.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the potential extension would allow the concessionaire additional time to firm up its financial position before full-scale construction begins. 

According to Nanta the ministry had already granted conditional approval earlier, with the expectation that the company would secure funding and support from financial institutions.

Speaking to reporters during a visit to the East–West Highway (JRTB FT004), which included the site of last year’s Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) student bus accident, Nanta explained that the concessionaire is still in the negotiation phase. 

"Strong financial backing is crucial to ensure the project can be completed smoothly once work begins," he stressed, adding that an official approval letter was submitted to the developer on May 1 and progress on the WISE project will depend largely on how quickly the concessionaire can finalise financing arrangements.

Once completed, the 60-kilometre WISE Highway is expected to significantly improve road connectivity in Perak. The expressway will feature three two-way lanes and stretch from Gopeng through Batu Gajah, Siputeh, Manong, Tronoh, Beko and Seri Iskandar, before ending in Kuala Kangsar.

The new route is also set to serve as an alternative to the often-congested Menora Tunnel, offering motorists a smoother and potentially faster option when travelling across the region.

For now, the project remains in its preparatory phase, with the government keeping a close watch on financial readiness before allowing construction to proceed.