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LRT3 in final phase of testing, service set for Dec 31 launch: Transport Minister

The Light Rail Transit 3 project is in its final testing phase, with operations slated to begin by the end of the year, ensuring safety and reliability

9:40 PM MYT

 

KUALA LUMPUR – The Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3), connecting Shah Alam and surrounding areas in Selangor, is slated to begin operations on December 31, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced today.

Speaking during the ministry’s committee-level debate on the Supply (Budget) Bill 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat, Loke explained that the project is in its final phase of testing and commissioning, ensuring the service’s reliability and safety, Bernama reported.

“The ministry, together with Prasarana Malaysia Berhad and the relevant authorities, is giving the utmost priority to safety, operational reliability, and technical compliance before we can finalise the opening date,” he said.

“This (opening date) is very much dependent on the results of our tests, because in rail services, one of the most critical aspects is the final test being conducted, including the fault-free run (FFR), to ensure there are no technical glitches when it opens.”

Loke also revealed that Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd has hired 956 workers in preparation for LRT3’s launch. These staff members, from various categories, include those in operations, technical, engineering, and support teams.

In addition to the LRT3 update, Loke addressed the recent roof leakage at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1, caused by heavy rainfall on November 14. He expressed dissatisfaction with the incident and instructed Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) to take strict action against the contractor responsible.

“The contractor carrying out work in the area must be held accountable, especially if the standard operating procedures were not followed. This is extremely disappointing and embarrassing, as it gives a negative image of the country, and it is very difficult to forgive,” Loke stated.

Finally, the minister reiterated the Transport Ministry’s firm stance on addressing overloaded vehicles, a long-standing issue. “Only with decisiveness and strong political will can we combat this menace, which has been going on for decades,” he said.

The Dewan Rakyat then approved the ministry’s estimated operating and development expenditure of RM6,767,918,800 for Budget 2026 by a majority voice vote.

The sitting will resume tomorrow. – November 17, 2025

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