Transport Ministry allocates RM30 million to upgrade Butterworth KTM station and expand Penang air cargo terminal to boost Seberang Perai transport hub
BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Ministry of Transport will upgrade the Butterworth KTM station with a RM30 million allocation to establish Penang Sentral as Seberang Perai’s main transport hub.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said this project falls under the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan, with contractors to be appointed next month before construction begins.
He explained the upgraded station will integrate KTM, Electric Train Service, and commuter services with Penang ferry services and the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit at Penang Sentral.
“All three modes of transportation will be integrated, making Penang Sentral a public transportation hub in Seberang Perai,” Loke told reporters after officiating the Penang DAP Annual Convention 2025.
“This is an Integrated Public Transport Terminal concept that connects various modes at one place.”
He emphasised this represents balanced development between Penang island and Seberang Perai, creating a focal area for regional growth.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd and the state government will expand the air cargo terminal in Bayan Lepas alongside Penang International Airport’s expansion.
Loke said MAHB and Penang Development Corporation will develop a larger logistical site in Batu Maung for international logistics players.
“This will double the air cargo capacity from three aircraft parking bays to six aircraft parking bays,” he added.
Regarding the Mutiara Line LRT project, Loke confirmed the RM16 billion project will connect to Seberang Perai as proposed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the Federal Government remains fully committed to implementing this massive project that the state government would find financially challenging alone.
Loke concluded that these transportation upgrades will position Penang as a hub for industrial sector development and electrical, electronics and semiconductor industries across the Asia-Pacific region.
The 29.5-kilometre Mutiara Line LRT will feature 21 stations, marking the first such system outside the Klang Valley. – Bernama
