By Zaki Salleh & Anne Das
Photo & Graphic: MBI & MRCB
IPOH: The landscape of Ipoh city is set to transform completely with the development of Ipoh Sentral, strategically located in the heart of the city.
This development modernises the face of Ipoh while opening doors to new opportunities, reinforcing its identity as a vibrant and growing city in line with the nation’s progress.
Ipoh Sentral is inspired by a vision to transform Ipoh City into a modern transportation hub.
Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook said the project is based on the principles of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and will integrate a comprehensive transportation system.
“With direct rail services connecting to KL Sentral and Penang Sentral, and its proximity to the North–South Expressway, Ipoh Sentral will become the key gateway to this region for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange,” he said.
He was speaking at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Ipoh Sentral Development, officiated by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Also present was the Perak Chief Minister, Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Further elaborating, Loke said Ipoh Sentral will be developed in two phases across 67 acres, with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM6.25 billion.
“Phase 1 of Ipoh Sentral will include a landmark public park at Regat Tun Perak featuring a new mosque.
“This park will serve as a community space that promotes a healthy lifestyle, recreation, and social interaction.
“Phase 2 will involve mixed-use development, including serviced apartments, office spaces, commercial areas, a hotel, and additional community facilities.
“This project is expected to create between 8,000 to 9,000 jobs during the construction period and over 10,000 job opportunities once completed,” he added.
Meanwhile, Saarani emphasized that the Perak state government has facilitated the approval process, finalised planning, and provided supporting infrastructure with meticulous care.
All of this is to ensure that the development proceeds smoothly and delivers results that the state can be proud of—benefits that will be felt by all levels of society.
“Five or ten years from now, Ipoh Sentral will be the centre of modern and inclusive urban living.
“Young people will have opportunities in new sectors, local traders will gain access to broader markets, and tourists will make Ipoh a key stopover destination.
“Whenever people mention Ipoh, they’ll picture a well-organised, competitive, and culturally rich city,” he said.
