10 New Public Transportation Projects Included In The 12th Malaysia Plan
Ten new public transport projects have been added to the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), including the Penang light rail transit (LRT).
This was revealed during the presentation of the mid-term review of the 12MP at the parliament yesterday.
The Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that this move is due to the importance and significance placed on the development of sustainable and resilient transport and logistics infrastructure.
“A major shift in strengthening the public transport network will provide better access and connectivity.
“More people will enjoy public transport services that are increasingly efficient, reliable, affordable and safe,” he said in Parliament.
Better public transportation system
The 10 new public transport projects are;
- The expansion of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and intra-city bus services including in Johor Bahru and the Klang Valley;
- Upgrading of the Senai-Desaru Highway;
- Widening of the North-South Highway (from Yong Peng to Senai Utara) in phases;
- Construction of Sarawak-Sabah Link Road II;
- Construction of Sabah Pan Borneo Highway Phase 1B;
- Penang Light Rail Transit (LRT)
- Penang International Airport expansion;
- Redevelopment of Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang;
- Upgrading the East-West Highway from Gerik, Perak to Jeli, Kelantan; and
- upgrading the road from Tanah Rata to Kea Farm, Cameron Highlands.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also added that the development of a new port on Carey Island is also expected to strengthen Port Klang as a transshipment hub.
“The government will also improve transport infrastructure maintenance works to extend the lifespan of roads, rail assets and air navigation equipment,” said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Public transportation has always been a major ask among Malaysians, with experts and the general public calling for a major revamp of Malaysia’s public transport system.The Penang LRT system, which is expected to be completed in the next five years, is expected to alleviate traffic issues in the state, especially in Penang Island.
