The Sultan of Selangor finally experiences the LRT3 Shah Alam Line, a project inspired by public complaints over traffic congestion
SHAH ALAM: More than a decade after proposing a new rail transport system for Shah Alam, the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, today personally experienced the Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) Shah Alam Line – a project inspired by public concerns over worsening traffic congestion and now serving as a key component of Selangor’s public transport network.
According to a statement from Istana Alam Shah, the idea for the LRT3 originated after His Royal Highness received numerous letters and complaints from the public regarding severe traffic congestion, particularly along the Klang-Shah Alam-Kuala Lumpur corridor.
Sultan Sharafuddin’s journey on the LRT3 today marked a significant milestone, symbolising the realisation of a proposal born from the people’s concerns and one that now benefits thousands of commuters each day.
Accompanied by the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, and the Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah, His Royal Highness travelled on a special train from Bandar Utama Station to Johan Setia Station, covering 20 stations in a journey of about one hour.
Also accompanying the royal family were Prasarana Malaysia Berhad Group Chief Executive Officer Amir Hamdan and Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) Group Managing Director Datuk Imran Salim.
The statement said Sultan Sharafuddin expressed gratitude that the long-awaited public transport infrastructure project had finally become a reality, describing it as an important initiative to improve the people’s quality of life, ease traffic congestion, and provide a more efficient, comfortable and sustainable public transport system.
“His Royal Highness remarked that it would have been ideal had the LRT3 line been completed according to the original schedule, as he views the service as a vital public transport facility for the convenience of the people.
“He also commended the patience of the people of Selangor. Alhamdulillah (praise be to God), the LRT3 is finally completed and operational, and he believes there is divine wisdom behind the delay,” the statement said.
Sultan Sharafuddin also expressed hope that work on the five deferred stations—Tropicana, Temasya, Raja Muda, Bukit Raja and Bandar Botanik—would be completed soon, noting that they would benefit residents, particularly the majority Malay population in the surrounding areas.
His Royal Highness also congratulated Prasarana on the successful implementation and operation of the LRT3, saying the rail line would provide significant benefits to residents of Shah Alam, Klang and nearby areas.
He also conveyed his deepest appreciation to the employees of Prasarana and MRCB, as well as all parties directly and indirectly involved in the successful construction and operation of the Shah Alam LRT Line.
According to the statement, Sultan Sharafuddin was informed that more than 13,000 individuals contributed their expertise, dedication and commitment throughout the LRT3 project’s implementation.
During the 10-year and nine-month construction period, an average of 8,000 personnel were deployed at worksites at any given time, comprising project directors, engineers, supervisors, technicians, skilled workers, construction workers, safety officers, logistics teams, administrative staff and support personnel, including both Malaysians and foreign workers.
“His Royal Highness extended his appreciation to everyone involved for transforming years of planning into a modern public transport system.
“He remarked that while the stations, tracks and trains are the visible outcome of the project, its true success reflects the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the more than 13,000 individuals who worked tirelessly to bring it to fruition,” the statement said.
Sultan Sharafuddin also expressed hope that Prasarana would continue to ensure the smooth operation of the LRT3 while minimising service disruptions.
He further urged the public to make full use of the rail service, describing it as a catalyst for fostering a stronger public transport culture and supporting the development of a modern, sustainable and high-quality mobility system for the future.
The LRT3 line was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on June 28, and during the launch, he also announced one month of free fares—from June 29 to July 31—for all passengers, including on the Prasarana-operated feeder bus services along the route.
The RM16.63 billion project represents one of the government’s strategic investments to strengthen the nation’s public transport infrastructure.
The line is supported by 40 feeder buses operating across 323 stops along 13 dedicated routes, aimed at enhancing connectivity for commuters.
