Ipoh Sentral: City's new transport future
With an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM6.25 billion, Ipoh Sentral combines elements of transportation, urban planning and sustainability in a single innovative initiative that promises to reshape city living in Perak.
Spanning some 27 hectares, the development will be rolled out in two phases over the next 20 years, beginning in 2025, under a partnership between Country Annexe Sdn Bhd (CASB) — a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) — and Ipoh Sentral Sdn Bhd (ISSB).
A core feature of the project is its ambition to become a vibrant mixed-use transit hub, integrating residential, commercial and public spaces to create a sustainable urban environment while reducing traffic congestion through efficient transport planning.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the project, located next to the Ipoh Railway Station, represented a key initiative by the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) to optimise railway land for high-value developments that also bring positive impact to the local community.
"It will be a modern transport hub linking multiple travel modes, supported by business, commercial and residential centres that will undoubtedly raise the quality of life for the people.
"This development concept is aligned with the Malaysia Madani aspiration and the National Transport Master Plan, as well as the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), which positions TOD as a key driver of urban growth," he said at the ceremony.
Loke added that beyond serving as a transport gateway, the railway network had the potential to redefine Ipoh's landscape into a dynamic modern transit hub that blends mobility, mixed-use development and sustainability.
"This approach encourages sustainable lifestyles, reduces traffic congestion, centralises development around stations and transport hubs, and reinforces public transport as a preferred choice for the people," he said.
Phase One of the project will focus on preserving 2.5ha of green space, including landscaping upgrades and a recreational park, while Phase Two will see mixed-use development across 24.4ha.
"This plan will not only add economic and transport value but also stimulate tourism by positioning Ipoh as a modern, well-connected and accessible city," he added.
Loke said the Transport Ministry had also outlined plans to strengthen services in tandem with the project, including the extension of the Northern Komuter Line from Butterworth to Ipoh in September 2023.
The government has further approved the procurement of 12 new three-car electric train sets worth RM283 million to replace ageing units, in line with growing passenger demand.
"Since the Butterworth–Ipoh line extension, average daily ridership has risen by 29 per cent, from 12,668 passengers in 2023 to more than 16,000 in 2024.
"Each of the new train sets can accommodate 470 passengers at any one time, with at least 170 seats per train," he said.
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