MRT Corp Opens Tender for RM10 Billion Penang LRT Mutiara Line Project

Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) has announced an open tender for the Penang Light Rail Transit (LRT) Mutiara Line project, which is a significant component of Malaysia’s public transportation infrastructure. With an allocated budget of RM10 billion, the project is expected to enhance connectivity across Penang Island and the mainland, supporting the state’s growth as a major economic hub.

A Call for Local and International Expertise

MRT Corp is inviting local and foreign companies to participate in the tender process, encouraging the formation of joint ventures (JVs) or consortiums. However, foreign participation is capped at a 49% stake within these partnerships, and each JV can include up to three companies.

“Participation of an original equipment manufacturer as a JV/consortium partner is considered an added advantage,” MRT Corp stated.

Companies interested in bidding must attend a tender briefing scheduled for Dec 12 at Gurney Bay Hotel, George Town, Penang. The submission deadline is April 4, 2025, by 12pm.

Eligibility and Technical Requirements

To qualify for the tender, JVs or consortiums must meet several technical and financial criteria:

Technical Requirements:

Experience in railway projects: At least one JV partner must have delivered a railway project as a system contractor or subcontractor within the past 10 years.
Subsystem expertise: Must demonstrate capability in managing multiple subsystems, ensuring seamless integration into a fully functional railway system.
Contract value: Tenderers must have been awarded railway system projects with a cumulative contract value of RM500 million over the past decade.

Financial Requirements:

Minimum shareholder fund: RM100 million based on the latest financial year.
Earnings track record: Positive cumulative EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation) over the last five years.
Credit facilities: A minimum of RM100 million in unutilised credit facilities from financial institutions.

Penang LRT: Key Features and Scope

The Penang LRT project spans 29km and will function as a medium-capacity train system. It will feature up to 20 stations, connecting key locations including:

Silicon Island in the southeast of Penang Island.
Komtar in George Town, Penang Island’s central business district.
Penang Sentral in Butterworth, mainland Penang.

The LRT system is designed to address traffic congestion, reduce commuting times, and promote sustainable urban growth.

SRS Consortium’s Role in the Penang LRT

In March 2024, SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, led by Gamuda Bhd (KL:GAMUDA) with a 60% stake, was offered the responsibility to develop Segment 1 of the Penang LRT, connecting Silicon Island and Komtar. SRS Consortium has been involved in the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) since August 2015, initially serving as the project delivery partner.

A Catalyst for Penang’s Urban Transformation

With the Penang LRT Mutiara Line, Penang’s public transport infrastructure is set for a transformative upgrade, benefiting commuters and supporting the region’s economic expansion. The project is expected to foster connectivity between Penang Island and the mainland, solidify Penang’s status as a leading economic hub, and attract further investments in infrastructure and urban development.