GEORGE TOWN, January 12 – The groundbreaking ceremony for the 29.5-kilometer Mutiara LRT Line was held today, highlighting its role in enhancing Penang’s transportation network and driving economic growth. Featuring 21 strategically placed stations, including a provisional stop at Penang South Reclamation Island-A (PSR-A), the line will connect key hubs such as Penang Sentral and KOMTAR, offering smoother and more efficient travel options.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the project’s transformative impact, stating that it will improve accessibility for residents on both sides of the Penang Strait. “This alignment, connecting KOMTAR to Penang Sentral, will ensure seamless integration with ETS and KTM Komuter services in Butterworth, elevating mobility for Penang residents,” he said at the event officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Loke also highlighted the project’s broader contributions to Penang’s economy, particularly in supporting key sectors like the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry and initiatives like “Penang Silicon Design @5km+.” Plans for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) at the Tapak Pesta site include integrated residential, commercial, and community spaces, promising urban renewal in Sungai Nibong.
“With MRT Corp leading the project, this LRT line will not only enhance connectivity but also create job opportunities, improve quality of life, and foster inclusive development in Penang. It marks a significant step forward in the state’s vision for sustainable urban growth,” Loke concluded.
