By Anne Das
The RM2.6 billion Ipoh Sentral project is set to transform Ipoh’s urban landscape, improving daily commutes, boosting local businesses, and creating new job opportunities for residents. The announcement was made today at a formal signing ceremony, attended by key government officials, corporate leaders, and members of the media.
Among the dignitaries present were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah, Ipoh Sentral Sdn Bhd (ISSB) CEO Firdaus Effendy bin Mokhtar, and MRCB Group Managing Director Datuk Imran Salim. The project aims to modernize the city’s transportation infrastructure while stimulating economic growth and urban renewal.
Ipoh Sentral will span 67 acres (27.1 hectares) behind the historic KTMB station, preserving its heritage while introducing a modern, transit-oriented hub. The project will be developed in two phases over the next 20 years.
Phase 1 will focus on heritage preservation and public space enhancements, while Phase 2 will introduce mixed-use commercial and residential developments.
The development will integrate train and bus services, pedestrian-friendly spaces, commercial hubs, and cultural areas, ensuring a seamless and efficient transport network for residents and visitors alike.
“Ipoh Sentral is a key part of our strategy to modernize urban transport while preserving the city’s identity,” said Transport Minister Anthony Loke. “This project will reduce congestion, increase public transport use, and make Ipoh a more connected and livable city.”
With a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM6.26 billion, Ipoh Sentral is expected to create jobs, attract businesses, and enhance tourism. The public-private partnership model between Railway Assets Corporation (RAC), the Perak State Government, and Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) ensures the project is financially sustainable and minimizes the government’s financial burden.
According to Loke, “RAC plays a key role in optimizing national assets for the people’s benefit, while MRCB brings extensive expertise in transit-oriented development, ensuring the success of this landmark project.
MRCB has a proven track record in transit-oriented development, having successfully developed KL Sentral and Penang Sentral, making it well-equipped to lead this ambitious transformation in Ipoh.”
Perak Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad emphasized the project’s broad impact, stating, “Ipoh Sentral is more than a transportation hub—it is a catalyst for economic growth, attracting new investments, creating business opportunities, and ensuring Ipoh remains a competitive and vibrant city.”
He added, “This development aligns with our vision of making Ipoh a modern yet culturally rich city, where residents benefit from improved infrastructure and enhanced economic prospects.”
A key aspect of Ipoh Sentral is its commitment to heritage conservation, ensuring the KTMB station remains untouched while the surrounding area undergoes thoughtful development. At the same time, sustainability is a priority, with plans to incorporate pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, and green spaces to create an environmentally friendly urban landscape.
With each phase, Ipoh Sentral will create new opportunities, strengthening the city’s economy and improving daily life for its people. Once completed, the hub is expected to increase rail passenger traffic, reduce congestion, and generate significant economic returns for the state.
