Penang: The Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project has not only transformed Penang's mobility landscape but has also emerged as a catalyst for the empowerment of Bumiputera contractors, with more than RM1.14 billion in construction contracts awarded to the group to date.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in its first year of construction alone, 24 Bumiputera contractors have been appointed under the project, translating the Bumiputera participation policy into tangible economic outcomes. Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim stated that demand for MRT Corp projects has remained strong over the years, as they are widely recognised as a national benchmark for public infrastructure delivery. Participation in these projects indicates that a contractor operates in a tightly regulated, performance-based environment and meets the standards required for major public infrastructure works.
Through the Mutiara Line LRT, MRT Corp is bringing valuable experience and a high level of expertise to the Northern Region, ensuring local contractors are exposed to the same standards of discipline and professionalism as other national rail projects. Recently, Mohd Zarif presented letters of appointment to seven Bumiputera contractors for the Mutiara Line LRT project, witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Penang MADANI Cultural Carnival and Kenduri Rakyat 2026.
The contractors are among the recipients of 10 work packages under the Mutiara Line LRT project, awarded in line with the Bumiputera Development programme implemented by MRT Corp through the Bumiputera special allocation policy, aligned with the Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035. Under the policy, 40 per cent of the total value of the Mutiara Line LRT project has been allocated for Bumiputera participation, amounting to RM3.17 billion under the first civil works contract awarded.
Meanwhile, Bumiputera contractor Ilya Fasya Mohd Nazar, one of the successful recipients in the first package allocation for the project, described the opportunity as a major turning point in her business journey. The Insabina Enterprise (CIDB G2) representative, a third-generation member of her family in the construction industry, said she viewed the appointment as both a personal achievement and a testament to her capability in a male-dominated field.
Additionally, Muhammad Ifwat Norshaidi of IFW Bina Enterprise (CIDB G1) said the Mutiara Line LRT project marked his first involvement in a national-scale rail construction project. The project involves rigorous documentation, safety requirements, and reporting processes, which pushed the contractors to be more organised.
MRT Corp stated that the successful contractors will undergo a structured orientation programme covering health and safety compliance, quality control, reporting requirements, and contract administration. The Mutiara Line LRT, involving the construction of a 29.5-kilometre line with 21 strategic stations, aims to enhance connectivity between Penang Island and the mainland, thereby easing road congestion and improving accessibility.