The Penang government is coordinating the relocation of businesses affected by preparatory works for the Penang Light Rail Transit Mutiara Line, particularly hawkers and roadside traders located along the project alignment, ahead of the main construction phase scheduled to begin in January 2026.

The Mutiara Line, which is expected to be completed by December 2031, will span 29.5 kilometres and include 21 stations, forming a key public transport link between Penang Island and the mainland. The alignment will run from the Penang South Reclamation area to Penang Sentral and Komtar, with train services operating in rotation along the route.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the relocation exercise is being carried out in stages due to the length of the alignment, which exceeds 20 kilometres. Contractors will proceed with construction in areas where relocation has been completed, while work in other locations will only begin once the process is finalised.

He noted that most affected parties understand the necessity of relocation for a public infrastructure project and have been generally cooperative, provided suitable alternative sites are made available. According to Chow, businesses that agree to relocate will also be issued the necessary licences at their new locations.

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