THE highly anticipated Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line is one step closer to reality, with its groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for this Saturday.
The grand event in Sungai Pinang is set to be graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, alongside Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
With the project gaining momentum, Penangites are eagerly looking forward to the construction of the Mutiara LRT Line commencing soon.
Following the announcement of the groundbreaking ceremony, many Penangites expressed excitement about realising their long-awaited dream of having an LRT system in Penang within the next few years.
Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim said her constituents were overjoyed upon learning that the construction of the first station would take place in their constituency.
“Many of them are proud that the planned first LRT station will be built here, and I fully believe the residents will understand some of the disruption that may occur when the works are carried out,” she said.
Mohd Shah Emran Kamaruddin, 42, who was born and raised in Sungai Pinang, welcomed the Mutiara LRT Line initiative.
“As someone from Sungai Pinang, I am looking forward to this milestone. The new public transportation network will undoubtedly help alleviate traffic congestion on Penang island,” he said.
He acknowledged the temporary inconveniences the construction might bring, such as noise and air pollution, but considered them minor setbacks for the greater good of Penangites.
CJ Lim, 32, a vegetable supplier from Batu Maung, fully supports the project, especially since one of the LRT stations is planned near his neighbourhood and the Penang Silicon Island (PSI).
“It will be a game-changer for the people of Batu Maung in the coming years. I can’t wait to take my first LRT ride from Batu Maung to town.
“The parking facilities provided under this initiative will also help reduce traffic congestion,” he added.
Wong Kim Fei, 48, a resident of Desa Pinang 2 near the proposed Bandar Sri Pinang LRT station, described the project as a timely gift for Penangites, particularly with Chinese New Year approaching.
“The plans for an LRT station close to my neighbourhood are commendable, especially for the B40 community in the area.
“Residents here can park their vehicles near the station and commute conveniently via public transport,” he said, noting how it would greatly benefit the community.
P. Kannan, 29, who commutes daily by motorcycle from Air Itam to George Town, hopes the LRT infrastructure will enhance safety for Penangites.
“With road fatalities, especially involving motorcyclists, on the rise, I hope to use the LRT once it’s completed.
“Although the Air Itam route hasn’t been proposed yet, I trust the government will eventually expand the line to cover the entire state,” he said.
V. J. Jessy Anne, 34, a resident of Macallum Street, was pleased to learn about the Sungai Pinang station.
“This new mode of transport will give residents an alternative and may even become the preferred way to travel to their destinations.
“I hope the project proceeds as planned for the benefit of everyone,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad