Butterworth: The Ministry of Transport (MOT) will upgrade the Butterworth Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) station near here with an allocation of RM30 million in an effort to turn Penang Sentral into the main transport hub in Seberang Perai. Its Minister, Anthony Loke, said it is a project under the Fifth Rolling Plan (RP5) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), with the MOT having undertaken assessment and will appoint the contractors next month before beginning construction work soon after.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Butterworth KTM station will play a key role as it will integrate the KTM, Electric Train Service (ETS) and commuter services with the Penang ferry services, as well as the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) at Penang Sentral, Butterworth. “All three modes of transportation will be integrated, making Penang Sentral a public transportation hub in Seberang Perai. This is an Integrated Public Transport Terminal concept that connects various modes at one place,” Loke stated. He emphasized the balanced development between the island and Seberang Perai, marking it as a focal area and a pulse of development for the surrounding region.
Meanwhile, Loke announced plans to expand the Penang International Airport (LTAPP) and the air cargo terminal in Bayan Lepas. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), in collaboration with the state government, will develop a larger logistical site in Batu Maung, aimed at increasing air cargo capacity from three to six aircraft parking bays.
The Mutiara Line LRT project, costing approximately RM16 billion, is set to extend to Seberang Perai, acting as a catalyst for Penang’s transportation development. Loke highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to the project, acknowledging the state government’s previous financial challenges.
The Mutiara Line LRT, alongside the LTAPP and air cargo terminal expansions, and the Butterworth KTM station upgrade, are poised to drive Penang’s growth as a hub for the industrial sector and the electrical, electronics, and semiconductor industries across the Asia-Pacific region. The Mutiara Line LRT will span 29.5 kilometres with 21 stations, marking a significant development outside the Klang Valley.