The Light Rail Transit Line 3 (LRT3) is getting closer to being launched. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has announced that the project is currently in the final testing phase, where trial operations are underway and the trains are ready for service. At the same time, he explained that the official date of operation will be announced within two weeks with the target of starting operations by the end of June.
The project was originally targeted to start operations on September 30, 2025 after reaching 99.21% completion. However, challenges in system coordination and final testing have caused the original schedule to slip. On February 23, Anthony Loke expressed confidence that the LRT3 would be operational before June. However, on April 28, he warned that continued delays could increase costs and affect contractors due to technical issues that have yet to be resolved.
The LRT3 is the fourth rail transit service in the Klang Valley and will be operated by Rapid KL. This 37km route connects Bandar Utama in Petaling Jaya to Johan Setia in Klang with 25 stations that are expected to benefit more than 2 million residents in the rapidly developing area. With a construction cost of RM21.93 billion, this project is expected to be able to carry up to 39,260 passengers per hour, thus reducing traffic congestion and increasing the efficiency of the public transport system.
In a related development, the ministry also emphasized the aspect of transport safety. Among the measures being considered is the proposal to establish the Malaysian Transport Safety Board (MTSB). In addition, discussions with e-hailing operators were also held on the installation of dashboard cameras to protect drivers. However, this measure must ensure a balance between driver safety and passenger privacy so that the interests of both parties are protected.
