GEORGE TOWN: The Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, to be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday, is set to transform Penang's public transportation scene.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the LRT project would mark a significant start to the rail public transportation system for the state.
He said, just as Rome was not built in a day; so too was a public transportation system.
"This Mutiara Line LRT project is just the beginning. Just look at how many lines Kuala Lumpur now has, 30 years after the first line.
"Similarly, for Penang, without the first line, we will not have a second, third or fourth line in future. If there are other lines, then it can be the main mode of transportation to resolve traffic issues, which is more efficient and time saving, especially for a developed city like ours.
"Prior to 2008, the LRT proposal was introduced but not implemented. Finally, after years of waiting, we have a system which can transform the public transportation scene in Penang," he told newsmen here today.
He was commenting on the benefits of Penang's very first rail project.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Mutiara Line is scheduled for Saturday in Bandar Sri Pinang.
Chow said this would also be the first step towards reducing private car usage and promoting public transportation.
"If we do not have a good system in place, it will be so difficult to encourage people to use it and to shift from private vehicle," he added.
On Tuesday, Chow denied that the land in Sungai Pinang, which will be used for the construction of the Mutiara Line LRTstation, was previously earmarked for a low-cost and low-medium-cost housing development.
He had said the land, designated for the LRT station, was originally meant for the construction of a school.
Today, Chow said an alternative site would be provided for the construction of the school.