Bagan Member of Parliament Lim Guan Eng has called on the public to give due recognition to Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, saying his contributions to Penang’s development have not received the attention they deserve. Speaking on January 20, 2026, Lim highlighted Loke’s role in advancing two major infrastructure projects that are expected to significantly benefit the state and its population.
According to Lim, Loke was instrumental in obtaining federal-level approval for the Penang Pearl Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project as well as the expansion of Penang International Airport. The LRT project, estimated to cost RM16 billion, is designed to connect Penang Island with Seberang Perai, including Bagan, while the airport expansion carries a projected value of RM1.55 billion.
Lim stressed that while the Penang state government had worked closely on planning and coordination, the projects were fundamentally driven by the federal government, as the full funding was provided at the national level. In his view, this underscored the importance of cooperation between state and federal administrations, particularly when it comes to delivering large-scale infrastructure that directly affects daily life and economic growth.
He said Loke’s efforts went beyond routine ministerial duties, pointing out that the projects required sustained engagement with the Prime Minister and federal agencies to ensure approvals were secured and implementation could proceed. Lim added that without this level of commitment, both projects might have faced prolonged delays or failed to materialise altogether.
Lim also extended appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, noting that his support was crucial in moving the projects forward. He said the combined efforts of the Prime Minister and the Transport Minister had ensured that long-standing development needs in Penang were finally addressed in a concrete manner.
Emphasising the scale of impact, Lim noted that the projects are expected to benefit approximately 1.8 million residents across Penang. He described the improved connectivity from the LRT and the enhanced capacity of the airport as critical to easing congestion, supporting tourism, and strengthening the state’s economic competitiveness.
At the same time, Lim cautioned against downplaying substantive achievements in favour of political messaging. He said Penang’s leadership would continue to back initiatives that deliver tangible results for the public and would support leaders who demonstrate effectiveness through action rather than rhetoric.
Lim concluded by reiterating that acknowledging contributions fairly was essential to fostering a results-driven political culture, especially when major national investments were involved in shaping the future of the state.
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