MRT Corp has awarded a RM2.69 billion contract to a joint venture comprising China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), TRC Construction and Ufuk Semarak for the construction of the Penang LRT Mutiara Line’s cross-sea extension connecting Penang Island to Seberang Perai. The Civil Main Contract 2 (CMC2) package covers the design and construction of a 5.5km alignment from Macallum on the island to Penang Sentral on the mainland, including a 3.05km bridge across the Penang Strait.

The extension will establish a direct rail connection between Penang Island and the mainland, with Penang Sentral serving as an important interchange hub for passengers travelling on the LRT, KTM train services, ferries and buses. According to MRT Corp, the journey between Komtar and Penang Sentral is expected to take approximately eight minutes, providing an alternative cross-strait travel option and potentially reducing reliance on road transport.

The cross-sea bridge will also incorporate specially designed sections to allow vessels to pass through to the ports of Prai and Butterworth. MRT Corp said it would work with the relevant authorities to minimise disruptions to motorists and ensure public safety throughout the construction period.

Construction of the Macallum–Penang Sentral alignment is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2027, following the appointment of the main contractor. Preliminary works will be carried out before major construction activities, including the building of the marine bridge. The section is targeted for completion by December 2031, in tandem with the island alignment connecting Silicon Island to Komtar.

The alignment will have two main stations at Macallum and Penang Sentral, while Bagan Luar has been designated as a provisional station to accommodate possible future expansion. The proposed station would provide an opportunity to extend the rail network further into Seberang Perai should the need arise.

The overall Mutiara Line will span approximately 29.67km, comprising 20 stations and two provisional stations. Once completed, it will become the first integrated metro transit system in the northern region, connecting key areas of Penang Island with the mainland. The project is expected to improve public transport accessibility, strengthen connectivity between the two sides of the state and help ease traffic congestion. MRT Corp reported that construction of the overall line was 16% complete as of November 2026, with passenger operations targeted to begin in December 2031.