PENANG made history today with the official launch of the highly anticipated Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line project.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held at Bandar Sri Pinang, Sungai Pinang, marking a significant milestone in the state’s transportation development.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the ceremony, accompanied by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who described the event as a historic moment following years of detailed planning and perseverance.
“Today is truly a landmark day for Penang as we celebrate the groundbreaking of the Mutiara LRT Line project.
“This occasion marks the culmination of over a decade of dedication, collaboration, and tireless efforts by numerous parties,” Chow said in his speech.
Chow stressed the importance of the project, stating: “The Mutiara LRT Line represents Penang’s first rail-based light transit system and serves as the backbone of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP). It is a monumental step towards building a sustainable public transportation system for the state.”
Expressing gratitude, Chow extended his appreciation to the Federal Government and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for their unwavering support.
“This project, conceived over a decade ago, faced numerous challenges.
“At times, the Penang government almost lost hope due to a lack of commitment from previous federal administrations.
“However, the establishment of the Madani Government has brought a renewed spirit of collaboration and determination, enabling us to make this vision a reality,” Chow added.
The Mutiara LRT Line project is poised to transform Penang’s public transportation infrastructure, paving the way for a more sustainable and accessible future for its residents.
The Mutiara LRT Line project will span a total of 29.5 kilometres, with Bandar Sri Pinang being one of the 21 elevated stations for the LRT project. From 21 elevated stations, 20 will be located on Penang island and man-made Silicon Island, and one at Penang Sentral on the mainland.
The other stations are Permatang Damar Laut, Penang International Airport, Sungai Tiram, South Free Industrial Zone, Free Industrial Zone, Jalan Tengah, Subterranean Penang International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Bukit Jambul, Sungai Nibong, Sungai Dua, Batu Uban, Jalan Universiti, Gelugor, Penang Waterfront, East Jelutong, Sungai Pinang, Macallum Street and Komtar.
Scheduled to begin operations in December 2031, the Mutiara LRT Line project will create thousands of job opportunities, attract substantial investments and greatly enhance the quality of life for the people of Penang.
In March last year, the Federal Government approved a development proposal for Penang Mutiara LRT Line project, which is expected to be completed by 2030.
The Federal Government has decided to appoint Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp), a company wholly owned by the Minister of Finance Incorporated (MOF Inc), as the developer and asset owner for the project.
The procurement of the project is divided into three main components, which are for civil construction works for Segment I, which is the line from Silicon Island to Komtar; works for civil construction for Segment 2, which is the alignment from Komtar to Penang Sentral and turnkey contract for system and carriage works on a build-maintain-transfer (BMT) basis.
Penang Mutiara LRT Line project is also among the projects announced by Anwar in Budget 2025 last year, in addition to the Juru and Sungai Dua Elevated Highway projects, the Penang International Airport (LTAPP) expansion and the Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 project in the state.
According to Chow, building an urban railway system like the Mutiara Line LRT project requires substantial funding, but the benefits far outweigh the costs.
“This project will address critical issues such as traffic congestion, environmental pollution, and the need to enhance the quality of life for the people of Penang.
“Additionally, I am also pleased to know that the Mutiara Line LRT project will include a provisional station on Silicon Island as well.
“This station underscores the project’s future-oriented vision, as Silicon Island is poised to become a new administrative hub for Penang.
“It will host emerging industry clusters, including artificial intelligence (AI), serving as a catalyst for economic growth and fostering seamless connectivity between industries through an efficient urban rail system,” he said.
Chow also expressed his hopes that this LRT project, along with other planned developments whether large, medium or small will be implemented promptly.
“As I approach my final term as Chief Minister, it is my dream to leave a legacy of Penang where its people can live harmoniously and prosperously.
“Through continuous efforts in economic and infrastructural development, we can ensure that Penang remains a livable and thriving state for generations to come. Let us work together to make this vision a reality!” said Chow.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook emphasised the strategic integration of the project within the broader Penang Transport Master Plan and highlighted key improvements introduced by MRT Corp through the strategic alignment of the Mutiara Line LRT project.
“One of the pivotal enhancements to Mutiara Line LRT is the extension of the alignment to Penang Sentral, effectively linking the island to the mainland, and the planning of future extensions to Tanjong Bunga and Air Itam, with Komtar established as the central interchange hub for metro rail.
“These enhancements reflect MRT Corp’s proven expertise in delivering large-scale rail infrastructure, promising new standards of quality and efficiency while delivering socio-economic benefits to the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the transformative potential of the Mutiara LRT Line project, describing it as a catalyst for economic growth, social prosperity, and national unity.
In his address, Anwar stressed the project’s ability to set new benchmarks for infrastructure in Malaysia, while unlocking opportunities for high-value investments and fostering new industries.
“The economic benefits will extend not just to Penang but also to the entire northern corridor,” he said.
Addressing concerns about the Pesta site in Sungai Nibong, which has been earmarked for one of the LRT train depots, Anwar acknowledged the site’s deep sentimental value to Penangites.
“The Pesta site has been home to the Pesta Pulau Pinang for over 50 years, and it holds a special place in the hearts of the people. I have discussed this with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, and we are aligned in finding a solution,” Anwar said.
He revealed plans to preserve part of the site, if possible, while ensuring the LRT project proceeds smoothly.
“Chow has agreed to hold further discussions with the relevant parties to explore modifications to the current plan,” he added.
Also present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Tanjong MP, Penang State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long, Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, former Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also the Bagan MP and Air Putih assemblyman and MRT Corp chairman Tan Sri Bashir Ahmad Abdul Majid.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat