BUTTERWORTH, September 22 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has dismissed allegations that the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project specifications were revised to smaller electric train sets, stressing that the claims are baseless as the tender process is still ongoing and no contract has been awarded.
He said bidders are still under evaluation and no instructions have been given to alter specifications. Loke also reassured that local participation will remain a key element of the procurement, including component assembly, as the 29.5km Mutiara Line with 21 stations aims to improve connectivity between Penang island and the mainland.
Separately, he announced plans to extend the railway track at Penang Port from 500m to 1,010m to enhance logistics efficiency, reduce road congestion, and ensure smoother cargo operations, with implementation costs to be shared through partnerships with port operators and the Railway Assets Corporation.
The announcement was made at the launch of the Professional Advancement in Trucking and Haulage (PATH) programme, which will train and certify over 1,000 haulier drivers nationwide. Loke said RM2.5 million has been allocated for the initiative to address driver shortages, improve port efficiency, and create new employment opportunities, particularly for youth entering the logistics sector.
