IPOH – A transit-oriented development (TOD) is set to take place here and redefine the city’s landscape by integrating residential, commercial and recreational spaces to create a connected, sustainable and integrated landmark.
The project, named Ipoh Sentral, will be carried out through a collaboration between Ipoh Sentral Sdn Bhd (ISSB) – a joint venture company established by Railway Assets Holding Sdn Bhd (RAHSB) and Silver Smart Sdn Bhd (SSSB) – and Country Annexe Sdn Bhd (CASB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB).
Both CASB and MRCB signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) today to announce their collaboration to develop Ipoh Sentral. The agreement was signed in the presence of Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Ipoh Sentral will be located adjacent to the iconic Ipoh Railway Station – a strategic site as it would serve as a gateway to the central region of the peninsula.
The TOD aims to enhance connectivity while reducing traffic congestion in the city by promoting walking, cycling and the use of public transit, which would help reduce dependency on private cars.
Furthermore, the TOD would also promote sustainable living by incorporating green building practices which could reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, the TOD will promote a pedestrian-friendly environment and cyclist-friendly spaces to promote active lifestyles with enhanced public spaces, parks, and amenities to be enjoyed by the Ipoh community.
The design of the proposed TOD development pays tribute to Ipoh’s rich heritage while incorporating modernistic charm, creating a unique architectural identity that honours the city’s past while shaping its future.
The pedestrian-friendly layout also integrates transit connections seamlessly into the city, featuring a central plaza dedicated to art and culture, green-certified buildings, and smart technology.
The proposed development of Ipoh Sentral is expected to span approximately 20 years, with planning targeted to begin this year. The project, which will take place on a 27.1-ha piece of land adjacent to the Ipoh Railway Station, has a gross development value of RM6.25 billion.
Loke said that MRCB, through its wholly owned subsidiary Country Anexxe Sdn Bhd plays a crucial role as the main developer of this TOD project.
“With their immense experience in developing integrated transit hubs such as KL Sentral and Penang Sentral, it is my hope that Ipoh Sentral will achieve a much higher success rate.
“Their role is not only limited to the aspect of physical development but also in ensuring compliance to the principles of sustainable development and innovation.
“Each project creates opportunities for improvement and I believe MRCB can look back at past experience to ensure that this Ipoh Sentral can be carried out meticulously and with high quality,” said the minister in delivering his speech at the agreement signing ceremony.
Loke said that the TOD will become a modern transportation hub integrating public transportation with mixed developments such as housing, businesses and recreational areas.
“This concept does not only reduce reliance on private cars but also (help) reduce carbon emissions – in line with the country’s climate agenda,” he added.
Meanwhile, Saarani said that the Ipoh Sentral project is not just a transportation hub, but also a comprehensive transformation plan to increase the efficiency of public mobility, reduce the gap between the urban and rural communities, as well as ease access to job opportunities, education and social activities.
“This would indirectly spur the tourism industry in Perak further,” he said in his speech.
He added that the TOD’s mixed development approach boosts economic growth while making the city more inclusive, sustainable, and people-friendly.
“In other words, this development is not only physical (in nature) but also creates a balance between economy, social, and the environment – in line with the goals of sustainable development and the Perak Sejahtera 2030 vision,” Saarani added.
MRCB group managing director Datuk Imran Salim said that the Ipoh Sentral exemplifies MRCB’s commitment towards sustainable and innovative urban development.
“By utilising our expertise in TOD, we hope to create an inclusive, energetic that would enhance connectivity and the quality of life of the Ipoh residents as well as preserve the unique heritage of this city.
“This project also reflects our commitment to deliver transformative infrastructure that would spur economic growth and community development,” he said in a press release.
Meanwhile, ISSB chief executive officer Firdaus Effendy Mokhtar said: “ISSB’s role does not only involve asset management, but we would (also) make Ipoh Sentral as a new destination that offers lucrative residential and commercial areas – while at the same time encouraging the usage of rail service with the direct access to Ipoh KTM station.
“The collaboration with MRCB is very strategic (given their) vast experience in TOD development.
“It is hoped that this project would create a positive impact on the rakyat, especially in connecting the community, spurring the local economy and improving public wellbeing. – January 23, 2025