Penang reached a historic milestone today with the official launch of the Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line project. The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Bandar Sri Pinang, Sungai Pinang, was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and marked a transformative moment in the state’s transportation landscape.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed the project as a culmination of over a decade of meticulous planning and perseverance. “The Mutiara LRT Line represents Penang’s first rail-based light transit system and serves as the backbone of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP),” Chow said.

The 29.5-kilometer Mutiara LRT Line will feature 21 elevated stations, connecting key locations across Penang Island, the man-made Silicon Island, and Penang Sentral on the mainland. Among the notable stations are Penang International Airport, Sungai Nibong, Komtar, and a future station on Silicon Island, envisioned as a hub for emerging industries like artificial intelligence.

Construction is scheduled for completion by 2030, with operations commencing in December 2031. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract substantial investments, and address critical issues such as traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the LRT’s transformative potential, calling it a catalyst for economic growth and national unity. “The benefits will extend beyond Penang, boosting the entire northern corridor,” he said.

The Federal Government has appointed MRT Corp as the project developer and asset owner, with procurement divided into civil works for the island-mainland alignment and system contracts. Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted enhancements introduced by MRT Corp, including extending the line to Penang Sentral and planning future extensions to Tanjong Bunga and Air Itam.

Addressing public concerns, Anwar acknowledged the sentimental value of the Pesta site in Sungai Nibong, proposed as an LRT depot location. He assured that efforts would be made to preserve part of the site while ensuring the project progresses smoothly.

“This project symbolizes collaboration and vision,” Chow added. “As I approach my final term as Chief Minister, it is my dream to leave a legacy of a thriving, livable Penang.”

The Mutiara LRT Line, alongside other initiatives such as the Penang International Airport expansion and Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3, underscores Penang’s commitment to sustainable development and a prosperous future.