Penang’s Mutiara Line LRT Cleared for Launch as Federal, State Settle All Issues
The long-anticipated Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project in Penang has finally cleared its final bureaucratic hurdles, with construction expected to begin within one to two months, announced Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook during his one-day working visit to the state.
This milestone marks a critical breakthrough for Penang’s transportation future, especially after several months of negotiations and planning coordination between the federal government and the Penang state administration.
🤝 All Issues Resolved Between Federal and Penang Governments
Minister Loke said all outstanding matters — including technical approvals and a formal release letter from the Penang government — have now been settled amicably.
“I personally chaired the final meeting with Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in Putrajaya. I’m happy to confirm that all remaining issues regarding the Mutiara Line have been resolved,” said Loke.
The green light clears the way for physical works, including piling and site preparation, to commence as early as July or August 2025, marking a new phase for the state’s infrastructure transformation.
🚧 Traffic Diversion Plans to Accompany Construction Phase
Loke also emphasised that the state government and project contractors must implement comprehensive traffic diversion strategies to mitigate congestion during construction.
“We’ve asked for a clear and detailed traffic management plan to be in place once piling work starts. The public must not be burdened by road closures or delays,” Loke added.
These plans are critical, given Penang’s dense urban layout, especially along the proposed LRT alignment connecting Bayan Lepas to George Town.
🚆 Mutiara Line LRT: A Game-Changer for Penang
The Mutiara Line, part of the larger Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), is designed to transform the state’s public transport landscape.
Key Features:
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Length: Approximately 29 km
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Stations: 20+
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Route: Connecting Komtar to Penang International Airport
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Estimated Cost: RM10 billion+
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Mode: Elevated LRT system
Once operational, the line is expected to significantly reduce congestion, offer faster commute times, and integrate with feeder and on-demand services like Rapid Penang.
🚐 Rapid Penang On-Demand Service Off to a Smooth Start
Loke also shared positive updates on the Rapid Penang on-demand van service, which was launched in August 2024 and has rapidly gained traction among daily commuters.
Service Highlights:
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Fleet Size: 50 vans
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Coverage: 13 zones (7 on the island, 6 in Seberang Perai)
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Average Daily Ridership: 1,944 passengers
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Average Ride Duration: 16 minutes
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Average Waiting Time: 19 minutes
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Fare: RM1 per trip
The Transport Ministry has also recruited 150 new drivers to meet growing demand and ensure operational efficiency.
“This is a flexible, cost-effective service that caters to residential and suburban areas where traditional buses are less viable. The adoption rate has exceeded expectations,” Loke noted.
📈 Looking Ahead: Integrated Urban Mobility for Penang
With the Mutiara Line LRT and on-demand services forming the backbone of Penang’s modern urban transit, authorities aim to create a seamlessly connected and low-emission public transport network.
The Mutiara Line is also designed to complement future infrastructure such as:
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New ferry terminals
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Multimodal hubs
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Smart parking solutions
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Feeder bus services under Rapid Penang
🗣️ Public Awareness and Communication Crucial
Minister Loke stressed the importance of public communication throughout the project’s rollout. Stakeholders, including local councils and developers, will be expected to engage communities proactively, provide updates, and handle complaints promptly.
A dedicated project information portal, public feedback channels, and regular media briefings are expected in the coming months.
🏁 Conclusion: Penang Gears Up for a New Transport Era
After years of debate, delays, and policy alignment between state and federal bodies, Penang’s LRT dream is finally becoming reality. With physical construction imminent, and integrated mobility solutions like on-demand vans already proving effective, Penang is now better positioned to address its long-standing urban mobility challenges.
The success of the Mutiara Line will not only reshape Penang’s commuting culture but could also serve as a national model for other high-density cities in Malaysia seeking smart, efficient, and sustainable transport solutions.
