Penang LRT – Mutiara Line

We’ve covered many different ways to get from Singapore to Malaysia, from Grab’s cross-border taxi service to the upcoming and highly anticipated RTS Link. Now, here’s something for those planning a trip further than JB. Penang is getting its first-ever Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, the Mutiara Line, which aims to make getting around the Malaysian state more accessible and connected.

For the rest of us, that’s good news too. Once it’s up and running, the LRT could make getting around Penang easier on our next trip, potentially saving us from spending too much on ride-hailing apps or waiting around for buses.

What is the Mutiara Line?

Image adapted from: MRT Corp

Stretching 26.97km with 22 stations, the Mutiara Line will connect key areas across Penang Island and the mainland, making it easier to get around while hopefully easing some of the state’s road congestion.

For tourists, though, the biggest draw is that it will also connect major transport hubs, including Penang International Airport and Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal. Getting to and from the airport or bus terminal could be a lot more convenient on your next trip.

BTW, construction for the LRT line is underway as you’re reading this, with work having begun in January 2025. When the line is ready, you can expect trains to arrive every 4 to 5 minutes during the 1st year of operations, with this interval eventually reduced to around 2 minutes.

Each train can also carry at least 405 passengers, which means they’re going to be roomier than the LRT trains we’re used to squeezing into in Singapore.

What are the stations on the Mutiara Line?

Image credit: MRT Corp

There’ll be a total of 22 stations, as mentioned, with each one serving different groups of people and businesses while making everyday journeys more convenient.

But one of the most exciting parts of the LRT line has got to be the 6km link between Macallum Station on Penang Island and Penang Sentral Station on the mainland. This stretch will see trains travelling across the water at 62m above sea level.

This leg of the journey is expected to take around 8 minutes, compared to 82 minutes by car during peak hours, according to Malay Mail. So not only will you get there faster, but you might also get a pretty nice view along the way.

Image credit: Gamuda Berhad

Here’s a quick look at the stations on the Mutiara Line:

What are the operating hours for Penang’s LRT line?

Construction near Penang International Airport for the Mutiara Line.
Image credit: MRT Corp

The Mutiara Line will operate from 6am to 12am daily, so whether you’re arriving in Penang early in the morning or late at night, you’ll have another transport option besides Grab rides or buses.

When will Penang’s LRT line be ready? 

If all goes according to plan, construction is expected to wrap up by December 2031, with passenger services set to follow shortly after.

Save this for your future Penang trips

The information in this article is accurate at the time of writing, but there may be new updates or changes to Penang’s upcoming LRT line over the years as construction progresses.

If you’re planning a future trip to Penang, keep a lookout on the official Mutiara Line LRT website for the latest updates. We’ll also be updating this article as more information becomes available, so you can check back here for the latest developments too.

More content to help you plan your Penang trip:

• Sanrio-themed hotel rooms in Penang
• Singapore to Penang by train
• 3-day Penang itinerary

Cover image adapted from: MRT Corp, Gamuda Berhad