TAIPING: The Ministry of Transport has announced the launch of a request for proposal (RFP) for the continuation of the iRide project in Ipoh, based on the transport on demand (TOD) concept.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke disclosed that the RFP will be open to public participation for a period of two to three months before undergoing evaluation for the potential resumption of the project.
Loke emphasized the government’s commitment to the iRide project, highlighting its expected positive impact on the economy of Perak.
“The Ministry of Transport has prioritized this project, awaiting the submissions through the RFP process. Despite delays caused by changes in government and the Covid-19 pandemic, we aim to proceed with the project promptly,” Loke stated during a media briefing in Taiping on Saturday (March 9).
Loke also mentioned that Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak has been briefed on the project’s progress, expressing his desire for the project to move forward.
Earlier, Loke inaugurated the Taiping MP and state assemblyman community center, with the presence of Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh.
The iRide plan, which covers a 78-hectare area around the Ipoh railway station, was initially launched on October 10, 2019.
A collaborative effort between the Railway Asset Corporation (RAC) and Mentri Besar Incorporated (MB Inc) aims to develop a 27-hectare area as a transportation hub.
The development plan includes segments for affordable housing, hotels, educational institutions, commercial spaces, green areas, and mixed-use areas, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive development approach.
Additionally, Loke announced that the ministry, alongside Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd, will reintroduce the special KL-Ipoh ETS Express service outside of festive seasons in the near future.
The express train service will operate daily, with at least one or two trains per day, offering a quicker travel time of just two hours between the two cities.
The re-launch of the express service aims to benefit frequent travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time significantly. – Bernama
