SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, comprising three major construction firms, has secured the main civil and structural works contract for the Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line in Penang, Malaysia. The project aims to be operational by December 2031.
The 29.5-kilometer Mutiara LRT, with a projected cost exceeding RM10 billion (USD 2.2 billion), is owned by Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRT Corp), a government-linked operator responsible for developing and managing the asset.
MRT Corp stated that this milestone underscores the government’s commitment to advancing Penang’s first LRT line, marking a significant step in the state’s infrastructure development. The project highlights the leadership role of SRS Consortium, which includes two prominent local developers alongside Gamuda Berhad, a construction industry leader.
SRS Consortium is a 60:20:20 joint venture between Gamuda Bhd, Loh Phoy Yen Holdings Sdn Bhd, and Ideal Property Development Sdn Bhd. Since 2015, the consortium has served as the Project Delivery Partner for Penang’s Transport Master Plan.
Gamuda Berhad, the lead partner in SRS Consortium, brings extensive experience in rail infrastructure, having played a significant role in the MRT Kajang and Putrajaya Line Projects. Under the recently awarded contract, SRS Consortium will oversee civil and structural works for the first segment of the LRT Mutiara Line, spanning from Penang South Reclamation Island to Komtar, Penang’s administrative hub.
The contract was signed by MRT Corp Chief Executive Officer Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim and SRS Consortium representative Datuk Ir Ha Tiing Tai, Deputy Group Managing Director of Gamuda Berhad. The signing ceremony, witnessed by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, reaffirmed the government’s emphasis on local participation.
Transport Minister Loke highlighted that 40% of subcontracting opportunities will be allocated to Bumiputera companies, with priority given to Penang-based firms. This approach aims to create significant local employment opportunities and enhance the state’s supply chain.
Mutiara LRT Line project scope and tender packages
The Mutiara LRT Line will be executed through three main tender packages. The first segment includes 21 strategically located stations along the 29.5-kilometer alignment, connecting key destinations such as Penang International Airport, Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, SPICE Arena, Georgetown, and Penang Sentral.
The second package, covering Segment 2 of the Civil Main Contract, extends from Macallum to Penang Sentral. It includes a 6-kilometer alignment with a 3.2-kilometer sea-crossing bridge designed to accommodate vessel navigation. The tender process for this segment is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2025.
The third package, known as the Systems Turnkey Contract (STC), involves the design, procurement, construction, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of railway systems. This tender opened on December 13, 2024, with submissions due by April 14, 2025. The STC has attracted considerable interest from local and international bidders, with a second tender briefing held today in Kuala Lumpur.
Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim, CEO of MRT Corp, emphasized the importance of direct project management for enhanced coordination and integration.
“MRT Corp is committed to delivering infrastructure projects that enhance mobility, enrich communities, and drive sustainable socio-economic growth. The LRT Mutiara Line presents multiple opportunities to deliver value to the rakyat, including job creation, socio-economic growth, technology development, and strengthening the local supply chain,” said Mohd Zarif.
Penang Transport Master Plan
As a crucial element of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), the LRT Mutiara Line will bolster connectivity and improve travel efficiency for both residents and visitors. The alignment includes 21 stations, with a provisional station planned at Silicon Island, currently under reclamation by SRS Consortium.
The project is poised to become a cornerstone of Penang’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity across vital areas and supporting the state’s economic and tourism sectors.
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