The Penang Light Rail Transit (LRT) Mutiara Line project is set to enhance connectivity with 20 stations on Penang Island and one on the mainland at Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai. This landmark project, developed by MRT Corp, aims to provide seamless transport options for residents and commuters.

State Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari presented the latest updates during the Penang Legislative Assembly, emphasizing the strategic alignment of the proposed route. The LRT will begin at Silicon Island and pass through major locations, including the Penang International Airport, Free Industrial Zone (FIZ), SPICE, Sungai Nibong, Komtar, and several residential and commercial hubs. The mainland station at Penang Sentral will offer an essential link between Seberang Perai and the island. All stations on the Mutiara Line will be elevated.

To improve convenience and alleviate traffic congestion, nine stations will include park-and-ride facilities, offering approximately 1,100 parking spaces. These facilities will enable commuters to park their vehicles and seamlessly switch to the LRT, reducing the number of cars on the road and promoting the use of public transportation. These facilities are planned for stations at Permatang Damar Laut, Jalan Tengah, Bukit Jambul, Sungai Dua, Jalan Universiti, Penang Sentral, Gelugor, Sungai Pinang, and Bandar Sri Pinang. Land acquisition processes are currently underway to finalize these plans.

Zairil also addressed traffic management concerns, highlighting the development of a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) that will be monitored by local councils and the state Public Works Department (JKR). Additionally, discussions are ongoing with Rapid Penang and MRT Corp to introduce feeder bus services to enhance accessibility to LRT stations.

“This initiative underscores Penang’s commitment to improving public transportation while addressing congestion challenges. Further updates on feeder bus services will be announced soon,” Zairil stated.