Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Transport (MoT) has firmly denied claims that the specifications for the electric train (ET) system in the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project have been altered. Transport Minister Anthony Loke addressed these allegations, emphasizing that the tender process remains ongoing and no contract has been finalized.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Loke clarified that the assertions made by a news portal, which cited unnamed industry sources, lack validity. He stated that no instructions have been given to contractors to modify the specifications of the train system. "The tender has not been awarded and we are still in the process of evaluating the submissions, so there is no issue of changing specifications or instructions being given to any bidder at this stage," Loke told reporters during the Professional Advancement in Trucking and Haulage (PATH) program launch.

Reports from local media suggested that Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) had requested bidders to provide alternative proposals for smaller-sized ET sets with lower technological capabilities. However, Minister Loke dismissed these reports as mere allegations, stating, "It's only an allegation. When you say 'allegedly', there's no need to respond. We haven't awarded anything yet."

Furthermore, Loke assured that local participation would be a key component of the procurement process, including the assembly of train components. The 29.5-kilometre-long Mutiara Line LRT, featuring 21 strategically placed stations, aims to enhance connectivity between Penang and the mainland, alleviating road congestion and improving overall accessibility.