Penang: The Penang government is not participating in the selection of the contractor for Package 2 of the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project. This responsibility lies with the project owner, Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the state government acts as a key stakeholder, being part of the Procurement One Stop Centre Committee. Chow mentioned that MRT Corp is still evaluating the tenders and will make recommendations to the Procurement One Stop Centre once the evaluation is complete. He addressed allegations of delays in the bidding process due to political interference, affirming that the project is on schedule and proceeding without disruptions.

The Mutiara Line LRT, initiated in 2025, is projected to be operational by December 2031. The line will cover approximately 29.67 kilometers, featuring 20 stations and two provisional stations.

In another statement, Chow highlighted the Penang Water Supply Corporation's (PBAPP) efforts to coordinate with Kedah authorities due to a critical decrease in the water level of Sungai Muda, which has dropped to 1.27 meters. As a short-term measure, the release of water from the Beris Dam in Kedah was suggested. Additionally, Penang will continue utilizing water from the Mengkuang Dam to prevent disruptions in the water supply.

Chow, also serving as the PBAPP chairman, expressed hopes for cloud seeding operations in upstream Kedah to elevate the water levels in Sungai Muda, emphasizing its necessity to ensure an adequate raw water supply for the state. The water level at the Lahar Tiang inlet was reported to be at a dangerous level of 1.27 meters as of 4.30 pm yesterday.