GEORGE TOWN, January 12 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Penang Mutiara LRT Line, emphasizing the need to balance development with preserving Penang’s unique cultural heritage. Stressing Penangites’ sentimental connection to their history, he assured that projects like the LRT and the Penang International Airport expansion would respect the state’s identity.
“Penang’s cultural heritage is unparalleled, and while we drive forward with modern infrastructure, it is critical to protect what makes this state special,” Anwar said. Referring to the controversial LRT depot planned for the Pesta Site in Sungai Nibong, he urged the chief minister to consider options to preserve parts of the site, reflecting the community’s attachment to it.
The LRT, spanning 29.5 kilometers with 21 stations, will connect Penang South Reclamation Island A (PSR-A) to Penang Sentral and Komtar. Anwar called for the project to be expedited while maintaining transparency and efficiency, urging MRT Corp to ensure a clean and leak-free execution. “This LRT must not only be functional but also uniquely Penang, reflecting the local culture even in its design,” he added.
MRT Corp CEO Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim revealed that the first contract for the project’s initial segment would be signed soon, with construction beginning immediately afterward. The LRT, expected to begin operations in December 2031, is designed to enhance Penang’s connectivity and mobility while bolstering its reputation as a sustainable urban hub.
Anwar also reiterated the importance of broader national unity, urging Malaysians to focus on development rather than divisive racial sentiments. “Let us channel our energy toward building a prosperous and inclusive Malaysia, where projects like this LRT serve as symbols of progress and collaboration,” he concluded.
