Putrajaya: All outstanding issues between the federal government and the Penang government regarding the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) have been resolved amicably. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook announced that he had chaired a meeting with Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at his ministry in Putrajaya last month, resolving outstanding issues, including the release letter from the state government.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke stated, "Physical work will begin shortly, in one or two months. So we ask them (the state government) to ensure there is a traffic diversion plan when piling work and construction begin to ensure the project doesn't have a negative impact on road congestion." He made these remarks during a media conference after concluding his one-day working visit to Penang.

In addition to the LRT updates, Loke provided information on the Rapid Penang On-Demand service by Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd (Rapid Bus). The service, which began in phases from August 2024, is running smoothly with 50 vans covering 13 zones in Penang-seven on the island and six in Seberang Perai. "The average daily users stand at 1,944 people, with an average of 39 passengers per van daily and an average travel time of 16 minutes and a waiting time of 19 minutes," Loke reported.

He also mentioned that there were 150 additional drivers to manage the vans, ensuring smooth operations. Passengers are expected to enjoy a fare of RM1 per trip.