Construction work has begun on the second Penang bridge project in Malaysia, which will link Batu Maung on the island and Batu Kawan on the mainland.

US-based CHEC Construction is expected to handle the $692.53m package 1 contract of the 17km bridge.

The contract includes foundation work, the erection of the main span and the construction of various substructures.

The work is scheduled for completion in May 2012, according to worldhighways.com.

Malaysia-based UEM Builders is expected to manage two other construction works for the project.