In June 1994, Konsortium Lebuhraya Butterworth-Kulim (KLBK) Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of PLUS Expressways Berhad was awarded the privatization of Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE) for a concession period of 32 years to design, construct, manage, operate and maintain the highway of dual two lane carriageway with separate motorcycle tracks and related highway facilities. This 17km carriageway is a vital link for Penang, Kedah, East Coast and Thailand.