The large-scale construction phase of the Penang Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) line is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026, marking a significant milestone for one of the state’s most anticipated public transport projects.
Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Mohd. Zarif Hashim, announced that appointed contractors will first begin with soil investigation works before finalising the rail line’s design based on site conditions.
“Once the design is finalised, the first step will involve identifying and relocating existing utilities at the construction sites,” he said. “In the next six months, the public will start seeing machinery being deployed to carry out these utility relocation works. However, heavy construction activities, such as pillar installation, will only begin in the final quarter of next year.”
Speaking to reporters during the 2025 Mutiara LRT Hari Raya celebration held at The Top, Komtar, Mohd. Zarif also shared that the LRT project will take approximately five years to complete and is targeted for full completion by 31 December 2031.
“This timeline is typical for mega infrastructure projects, which usually follow an ‘S-curve’ development pattern—slower progress in the initial stages followed by acceleration once critical phases are underway,” he added. “We are aware that the people of Penang have been waiting a long time for this LRT, and we are committed to delivering it efficiently.”
In an earlier statement on 21 April 2025, MRT Corp confirmed that the project remains on track according to schedule. Significant progress has been made in recent months, including the approval of preliminary works under Section 20A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1976, granted on 15 April 2025.
Additionally, land acquisition efforts have advanced rapidly, with access secured for 86 land lots to date. The gazettement process under Section 8 of the Land Acquisition Act 1960 has also been completed—a major achievement ahead of the original target set for October 2025.
The 29.5-kilometre Mutiara LRT line will feature 21 strategically located stations and aims to enhance connectivity between Penang Island and Seberang Perai. It is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve public accessibility across the region.
The main alignment includes a route stretching from the southern reclaimed island of Penang (PSR-A) to Penang Sentral and Komtar Station in George Town. Train services will run in alternating loops across the line once operational.
