Penang: The Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project marked a significant milestone following the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) to SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, the main civil contractor for Package 1 (CMC1), by project developer MRT Corporation (MRTC) on July 15. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the development signified the official commencement of physical construction works for the state’s first-ever LRT project.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow expressed gratitude for the official notice, emphasizing that construction will proceed as scheduled. Initial works will include utility relocation, road widening, earth piling works, and site establishment preparation across approved locations along the Mutiara Line.
Chow mentioned that the state government is awaiting the tender process results for appointing a turnkey contractor for the CMC2 Package, involving the line from Macallum to Penang Sentral, and the rail system package for the entire Mutiara Line. The project has seen major developments this year, including the groundbreaking ceremony at the Bandar Sri Pinang Station site and the appointment of SRS as the turnkey contractor for CMC1 in January.
The state government plans to introduce a strategic communication platform and feedback line to cover all mega infrastructure projects in Penang. This initiative aims to ensure transparency, accessibility of information, and constructive public interaction throughout the project’s execution.
Chow called on all stakeholders, especially the people of Penang, to cooperate fully throughout the project’s implementation, expected to be completed in 2031 for the state’s future benefit. The 29.5-kilometre-long Mutiara Line LRT comprises 21 strategic stations, designed to improve connectivity between Penang and the mainland, reducing road congestion and improving accessibility. Its main alignment plan covers the route from the Penang South Reclamation Island A (PSR-A) to Penang Sentral and Komtar Station in Georgetown, with train services scheduled to operate on a rotating basis along the route.