MCA has urged Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow to lodge a report with the MACC so that it can probe why the feasibility study of the Penang undersea tunnel is "forever pending".

MCA vice-president Tan Teik Cheng (photo, above) said the feasibility studies for the mega RM6.3 billion undersea tunnel seem to be "stagnant".

Tan, who is also Penang state MCA liaison chairperson, recalled that the project is certainly not lacking in controversies.

He pointed out that the project was awarded to the developer in 2013, but they were allowed to commence work some 10 years later.

"Why are the project developers bestowed with such a good deal? This is unreasonable," Tan said in a statement.

"Since 2013, the developers are still unable to submit a feasibility report, which adds doubts to their ability," he added.

Tan was referring to Chow's remarks that the feasibility study for the undersea tunnel was 94.85 percent completed and close to completion although certain quarters questioned its "slow pace".

In January, Chow refuted a news report on the status of the feasibility study for the proposed undersea tunnel.

Chow had then said despite the developer completing the report, related documentation has yet to be vetted by state-appointed independent checking engineers.

Tan said Chow's reply validates MCA's questions about the cost of the project, which were directed to former chief minister Lim Guan Eng.

"Since Chow is unable to clarify these doubts, neither can he push the responsibility to the former administration led by Lim. But as the chief minister, how can he face Penangites?" Tan asked.

"We urge Chow to represent the Penang government and lodge a report with the MACC over the delays. We demand a thorough investigation and clearing of all the doubts the people have regarding this project," Tan added.

The project developer Consortium Zenith Constructions Sdn Bhd had previously said - prior to GE14 - that the study was about 95 percent completed.

Spanning 7.2km, the undersea tunnel linking Butterworth to Penang island, as well as three paired roads, is slated for completion in 2027.