The first parcel of reclaimed land on Penang’s Silicon Island is expected to be ready for handover to MRT Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRTC) as early as May, marking a major milestone in the island’s phased development strategy.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the 27.7-hectare (68.5-acre) site designated for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) depot will be transferred once the reclamation and ground preparation works are completed, enabling early construction works to begin without waiting for the entire 930-hectare masterplan area to be formed.

He stressed that Silicon Island’s development will proceed in stages, with the LRT depot site becoming the first topside component to move forward.

“We will not wait for the entire reclamation to be finished before starting topside development. Once the land is ready, construction can begin, starting with the LRT depot site,” he said during a press conference held in conjunction with the official launch of the public viewing of the final Penang Silicon Island Local Plan 2050 (RTPSI) at Amari SPICE Penang.

The readiness of the depot land signals growing momentum for Silicon Island, which is envisioned as a long-term strategic expansion to address Penang’s industrial land shortage while supporting future mobility infrastructure.

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