The reinstatement of five stations on the LRT3 line in Shah Alam, Selangor, will now cost RM5.3 billion, exceeding the earlier estimate of RM4.7 billion, according to Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah. This increase was disclosed during a Dewan Rakyat session, though specific cost breakdowns were not provided.
The revived stations — Tropicana, Temasya, Raja Muda, Bukit Raja, and Bandar Botanik — were first announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Budget 2024. These additions bring the total LRT3 project cost to RM21.93 billion, still significantly lower than the original estimate of RM31.65 billion.
Cost Adjustments and Project Background
Initially introduced in 2015 under the Barisan Nasional administration, the 37-km LRT3 line connects Bandar Utama to Johan Setia in Klang. In 2018, a cost reduction exercise by the Pakatan Harapan government cut the project cost by half to RM16.63 billion. This included temporarily shelving the five stations due to fiscal constraints.
The LRT3 line construction has now reached 95.6% completion and is anticipated to start operations in Q3 2024, as reported by Transport Minister Anthony Loke in July.
Timeline for New Station Construction and Operations
Deputy Minister Hasbi added that the rail service operator, Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, is working on finalizing technical designs and financing agreements for the revived stations.
- Design scope: Finalized by Q1 2025
- Construction start: Expected in Q4 2025
- Completion and Operations: Targeting completion by Q4 2027, with service beginning in Q2 2028
The completion of these additional stations is set to enhance accessibility for residents in Shah Alam and strengthen connectivity in the Klang Valley region. This update aligns with Malaysia’s continued investment in public transport infrastructure to meet the demands of its growing urban population.
The LRT3 line’s expansion promises not only greater convenience but also a substantial boost in value for surrounding residential and commercial areas, reinforcing Shah Alam’s position as a key urban hub.
