Kuala Lumpur’s MRT3 Circle Line: Final Route Reduces Land Acquisition by 31%
In a major development for Kuala Lumpur’s urban rail infrastructure, MRT Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) has announced that the number of land lots required for the MRT3 Circle Line project has been reduced by over 31%, dropping from 1,012 parcels to just 690. This adjustment follows a detailed public consultation process aimed at minimising disruption and refining the alignment of Malaysia’s most ambitious citywide rail loop.
The MRT3 Circle Line will act as the final connector in the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (KVMRT) system, forming a 51-kilometre orbital route that links the city’s key residential, business and transit hubs.
Public Support and Smarter Alignment Drive Project Forward
According to MRT Corp, the changes stemmed from its public inspection exercise held from September to December last year, which gathered over 45,000 written responses. An impressive 93.3% of feedback supported the project, affirming the public’s demand for improved urban connectivity.
In response to feedback from residents, lawmakers, and business groups, adjustments were made to:
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Station placements
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Viaduct positioning
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Track alignment (elevated vs. underground)
These refinements helped significantly reduce the number of private land lots required, especially in densely populated areas.
Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim, CEO of MRT Corp, extended his appreciation to community stakeholders for their collaboration:
“This alignment reflects the voice of the people, and we are committed to delivering a system that respects community needs while enhancing connectivity.”
MRT3 Will Complete Greater KL’s Rail Network
The MRT3 Circle Line is set to become the backbone of urban mobility in Kuala Lumpur. Once operational, the 51km line will feature:
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31 stations
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40km elevated tracks and 11km underground tunnels
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10 interchange stations connecting to MRT1, MRT2, LRT, Monorail, and KTM lines
By circling the capital and linking radial rail lines, the Circle Line will dramatically reduce transfer times, cut traffic congestion, and boost accessibility to suburban neighbourhoods and city-fringe areas.
Minimising Community Disruption and Strengthening Public Trust
The reduction in land acquisition lots is more than a technical adjustment — it’s a move that safeguards residential stability, heritage structures, and small businesses along the route. For property owners and residents, this means fewer forced relocations and smoother transition planning.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke officially approved the final scheme this week, paving the way for land acquisition activities to begin immediately, with completion targeted by end-2026.
Implications for Property Investors and Homebuyers
With the MRT3 Circle Line officially locked in, real estate interest is expected to surge along the confirmed alignment. Transit-oriented development (TOD) areas — especially those near interchange stations — are likely to enjoy:
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Stronger rental demand due to easier commuter access
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Higher capital appreciation as infrastructure becomes a value driver
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Retail and commercial spillover from increased foot traffic
Notably, areas like Mont Kiara, Setapak, Taman Desa, and Bandar Tun Razak—already established residential zones—are set to benefit from greater accessibility without facing major displacement or land encroachment.
Public-Private Partnership Model Under Exploration
MRT Corp has also confirmed it is exploring alternative financing strategies, including public-private partnerships (PPPs), to reduce reliance on direct government funding.
This is in line with Budget 2025 priorities, where the government seeks to defer non-essential mega projects and focus on infrastructure that delivers broad-based social and economic value.
Such a PPP model could open the door for private developers, REITs, and institutional investors to co-invest in high-value TOD zones, further integrating real estate and transport planning in the Klang Valley.
Looking Ahead: MRT3 to Shape KL’s Urban Future
Originally shelved in 2018, the MRT3 Circle Line’s revival in 2021 under a new administration showed the project’s strategic importance. With its alignment now finalised, the project is poised to:
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Relieve road congestion
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Connect underserved communities
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Drive new urban renewal opportunities under the Urban Renewal Act
Once completed, the Circle Line will be a game changer — not only as an efficient transport solution but also as a catalyst for smart city development, compact urban living, and sustainable mobility in Kuala Lumpur.
Conclusion: The Time to Watch MRT3 Corridor Properties Is Now
The MRT3 Circle Line is no longer a question of “if,” but “when.” With fewer land disruptions and greater connectivity, properties near confirmed stations will likely see sustained demand in the years ahead.
Whether you’re an investor tracking undervalued TOD sites or a homebuyer seeking improved access without KLCC price tags, the MRT3 corridor offers unique mid- to long-term value.
