GEORGE TOWN, June 1 – Parti Rakyat Malaysia Pulau Pinang’s transportation group has raised concerns and refuted the Penang state government’s claim that the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system is the best solution for transportation on the small island. In order to assess the feasibility of the government’s proposal, the group demands clear answers to several critical points. The group first highlights the alignment of the LRT line, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding its potential impact on residents and properties.
Questions arise about potential demolitions of homes and the potential noise pollution affecting the peaceful enjoyment of homes and open spaces. Moreover, the group questions the exclusion of high worker-density areas like Intel, Keysight, and Motorolla in the alignment, as these areas require efficient mass public transportation to alleviate commuting stress and enhance work productivity. Similarly, densely populated areas like Relau are not covered by the proposed line, raising concerns about accessibility for a significant portion of the population.
Secondly, the group urges the state government to provide well-founded data in a simple and clear format to demonstrate the government budget and how it plans to achieve the minimum passenger volume necessary for a viable return on investment. Speculation surrounds the ridership of the LRT, as it relies on the construction of high-density apartments near the stations. The group emphasizes the importance of transparent data that guarantees ridership and dispels uncertainties. The cost of riding the LRT emerges as a pressing concern for the public.
The group urges the state government to disclose estimated minimum and maximum fares for LRT rides, while also comparing these costs to the expenses associated with motorcycles and small cars. This transparency is crucial, particularly in evaluating the affordability of LRT transportation for lower-income individuals (B40). Maintenance costs become another point of contention. The group requests clear answers regarding the annual maintenance fee, its funding source, and whether it would lead to additional taxes imposed on the public.
Concerns arise about the burden on citizens if new taxes such as house registration tax or land tax are introduced to cover LRT maintenance expenses. Furthermore, the group raises issues related to first-mile and last-mile connectivity, highlighting the potential drawbacks of relying on services like Grab for transportation between homes, LRT stations, and destinations. They argue that such dependency can lead to increased costs and inefficiencies, undermining the cost-effectiveness of the LRT system.
Criticism is also directed at the “single-line design” of the LRT, likening it to a cable car for tourists rather than a comprehensive transportation solution. The group stresses the need for a traffic master plan that genuinely addresses the needs of the people, ensuring ease of movement at a reasonable cost. They call for democratic decision-making and scientific implementation of transportation plans that prioritize citizen needs over vanity projects.
Chairman of the Penang People’s Party, Teh Yee Cheu, encourages citizens to remain vigilant and not be swayed by attractive illustrations and promises from leaders. He urges the public to avoid rushing into “development” that does not serve its purpose and risks becoming expensive white elephants that burden taxpayers. As the debate continues, the Parti Rakyat Malaysia Pulau Pinang’s transportation group emphasizes the importance of democratic decision-making, scientific assessments, and the inclusion of citizen voices in shaping Penang’s transportation future.
