Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the RM1.4 million project was expected to attract more tourists to the island.

“From here, visitors can breathe in the cool fresh air of Penang Hill and enjoy the magnificent view of George Town and Seberang Perai,” he said.

The Skywalk is part of Phase Two of the upgrading project at the upper station in Penang Hill, which consists of three tiers and a garden.

The construction of the viewing deck started a year ago.

Lim said a new holding area, slope stabilisation next to The Skywalk and the upgrading of the walkway below had also been completed.

The final bit of Phase Two — a lift, museum gallery and cafe on the third tier — is expected to be completed by the end of next month.

Phase One, comprising the retractable roof at the lower station and elevated walkway leading to the

Astaka food court was completed in 2013. Phase Three, estimated to cost RM6.5 million, will start later this year.

“It will house a science tech cafe, a children’s playground, convenience stalls, an ATM outlet, moneychanger, a souvenir stall and food and beverage outlets.

“The facilities are to cater for the increasing number of tourists at Penang Hill,” said Lim.

He also gave the assurance the development had been eco-friendly.

“The ecosystem, the natural surroundings, and the flora and fauna will be preserved.

“Bear in mind that the tourists are here to enjoy the natural heritage, and the cool fresh air of the mountains,” said Lim.

Statistics from Penang Hill Corporation show that the number of visitors increased from 600,000 in 2011 to 1.2 million in 2012 and 1.23 million in 2013.

The figure hit 1.36 million last year.