Kuala lumpur: Shah Alam: Prasarana Malaysia Berhad (Prasarana) has confirmed that the Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) Shah Alam Line will not commence operations this year due to outstanding system stability and software issues identified during the testing and commissioning (T and C) phase.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prasarana Group President and Chief Executive Officer Amir Hamdan stated that the opening date will only be announced once all technical components, including signalling systems, train software, and full network integration, are certified to operate reliably in accordance with Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) standards.
Amir emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety and reliability, citing potential disruptions in passenger travel experiences due to technical failures such as train doors not opening. During a media briefing at the LRT3 Stadium Shah Alam Station, he explained that the system needs to be stable, safe, and dependable before being opened to the public.
The project is currently in the mandatory fault-free run (FFR) phase, requiring trains to travel thousands of kilometres to detect technical issues. Issues like door failures, trains stopping inaccurately at platforms, and disruptions in automatic movement tend to surface only after extensive testing of 2,000 to 4,000 kilometres.
Amir noted that a long test distance is essential for gathering data that helps contractors develop accurate software fixes or patches. One train set has successfully completed 4,000 kilometres, serving as the reference or golden train, while three other sets have completed 3,000 kilometres.
Another 18 train sets are undergoing long-distance testing to meet the minimum requirement of 2,500 kilometres before receiving operational approval. Since August 26, 33 technical issues have been identified and resolved through phased software updates developed by the contractor.
Each software update requires a testing period to validate its effectiveness and ensure issues do not recur when the line begins operations. Siemens, as the signalling provider, and CRRC, the train manufacturer, are providing full technical support, including expert assistance from Germany.
Prasarana continues to brief the Transport Minister on project progress once or twice weekly, depending on developments. The company aims to complete all major tests by the end of January next year, with the final schedule to be confirmed in mid-January once system stability is fully validated.
Amir reiterated that the LRT3 project cost remains unchanged as it is implemented under a fixed-price contract, dismissing claims of cost increases arising from the delay.