MRT Corp has awarded a RM2.69 billion contract to build a 5.5km extension of Penang’s Mutiara Line LRT that will link Penang island directly to Seberang Perai by rail.
The Civil Main Contract 2 package covers the design and construction of the stretch from Macallum Street on the island to Penang Sentral in Butterworth, including a 3.05km sea-crossing bridge with navigation spans for vessels using the ports of Prai and Butterworth.
It was awarded to a joint venture of China Communications Construction Company, TRC Construction Sdn Bhd and Ufuk Semarak Sdn Bhd.
MRT Corp said the extension would provide a direct rail connection between the island and the mainland, cutting the journey from Komtar to Penang Sentral to about eight minutes.
The Mutiara Line will have 22 stations. MRT Corp said construction is 16% complete and on schedule, with operations expected to begin in 2031.