Penang Mutiara LRT Project Poised To Commence In 2025

Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced today that Penang's Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, which was supposed to begin in Dec, is now expected to begin next year.

The project is currently in its final negotiation phase, with details on design and costs being refined. Loke also shared that they hope to wrap up these negotiations before the end of this year.

Speaking at a press conference following a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing between the Railway Assets Corporation and the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP), Loke explained that Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp), is still in discussions with the contractor, SRS Consortium.

Loke also clarified that, while the Penang state government had initially hoped for the project to start this year, however he had never committed to this timeframe. “Once negotiations are finalised, we will make an announcement,” he said.

The project, originally managed by the Penang state government, has since come under the Transport Ministry's oversight, resulting in some changes. A new alignment has been added to connect Penang Island with the mainland, as directed by the prime minister resulting in a longer planning and negotiation period.

After the negotiations are completed, the next steps will include signing an agreement and holding a groundbreaking ceremony, which could happen early next year, Loke added.

The project’s first phase, focusing on the Bayan Lepas to Komtar route, will be prioritised. Plans for the second phase, which aims to link George Town on Penang Island with Penang Sentral in Butterworth on the mainland, are also being negotiated to ensure full connectivity across both alignments.

Source: MALAYMAIL