Penang’s Mutiara Line LRT Project Expected to Begin in 2024, Confirms Transport Minister
The highly anticipated Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project in Penang is on track to begin next year, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke. Speaking at a press conference after the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Railway Assets Corporation and the Lembaga Perumahan Negeri Pulau Pinang (LPNPP), Loke confirmed that the project is in its final negotiation phase.
“Negotiations on the final design and detailed costs are ongoing, and we aim to complete them by the end of this year,” Loke stated.
The Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp), which is managing the project, is currently in discussions with the contractor, SRS Consortium. Once finalized, an official announcement and groundbreaking ceremony are expected to follow, likely in early 2024.
New Project Alignment and Government Oversight
Initially managed by the Penang state government, the Mutiara Line project has undergone adjustments in alignment since the Transport Ministry took over. Under the ministry’s guidance, a new alignment connecting Penang Island to the mainland was added, enhancing connectivity across the region.
“The revised alignment reflects the prime minister’s directive to link the island to the mainland, which has extended the planning and negotiation process,” Loke explained. The updated alignment plan includes a line connecting George Town on Penang Island to Penang Sentral in Butterworth on the mainland, offering residents improved access between the two regions.
Prioritising the Bayan Lepas to Komtar Route
The project’s first phase, prioritizing the Bayan Lepas to Komtar alignment, is designed to improve connectivity within Penang’s key urban areas. Negotiations are also addressing the second phase, which will expand the network to cover both island and mainland routes, ensuring seamless travel across Penang’s transit lines.
Loke emphasized that planning both phases as an integrated network is crucial for the LRT’s long-term success and functionality. “We need to plan the entire LRT project to include both alignments to ensure connectivity between the lines,” he noted.
With the project expected to break ground next year, the Mutiara Line LRT is set to play a transformative role in Penang’s public transportation infrastructure, enhancing mobility and connectivity across the state.
