IPOH: Ipoh Sentral, a modern transportation hub, is in the works, with the project expected to be fully completed in 20 years.
The project, with a gross development value (GDV) of RM6.26bil, will be divided into two phases, the project sits on 27.1ha of land behind the current iconic Ipoh Railway Station.
The overall transit-oriented development project would see integrated public transportation with mixed-use developments such as residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said work on the first phase on a 2.55ha plot is expected to start in six months, and be completed in two years.
“The first phase involves improvements to landscaping and recreational elements, while preserving the heritage and cultural elements.
“The existing places of worship located in the area will not be affected, and, in fact, will be preserved, and a new mosque will be constructed there as well.
“This is to symbolise the harmony of the various religions and communities in Ipoh,” he told a press conference after witnessing a Memorandum of Agreement signing on the project between Ipoh Sentral Sdn Bhd (ISSB) and Country Annexe Sdn Bhd (CASB) at Weil Hotel here Thursday (Jan 23).
The signing was also witnessed by Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
This Memorandum of Agreement was signed by MRCB Group managing director Datuk Imran Salim, representing CASB, while ISSB was represented by its chief executive officer Firdaus Effendy Mokhtar.
Loke said phase two covers a mixed development over 24.7ha involving the construction of serviced apartments, offices, commercial spaces, hotels, and community facilities.
“This phase is expected to take 20 years to complete.
“This will become a modern transportation hub connecting various transport modes such as rail and bus services,” he said.
Loke said the Ipoh Railway Station would not be affected by the project.
“The heritage station will be preserved. The station is our pride, which is full of heritage and historical value.
“The Sultan of Perak has stated the importance of conservation concerning the station,” he added.
Loke said the first phase would emphasise more on the landscape, pedestrian walkways, as well as cycling routes.
“This project has the potential to transform Ipoh’s urban landscape, making it more efficient, people-friendly, and sustainable.
“This concept not only reduces dependence on private vehicles but also contributes to carbon emission reduction in line with the country’s climate change agenda,” he added.
Saarani said he was happy to finally see the project turning to fruition.
“I am glad we have reached this stage, and I hope the local council and the relevant departments will fast track the project, with this good synergy between both the federal and state governments,” he said.
Loke said the main issue concerning the project earlier was on the land matters.
He said the land surrounding the railway station is Railway Reserve Land, which falls under the Federal Government.
“The state government wanted it to be registered under the State Secretary Incorporated (SSI), so there was a bit of disagreement on that.
“But now both governments has decided to work together for a win-win situation, and we have reached here with this great cooperation,” he said.