The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is making steady progress and is expected to reach 90% completion by December 2025, according to a report by Bernama. As of April 2025, the 665-kilometre rail project had achieved 82.45% completion overall, said Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak.
He highlighted that construction progress stands at 89% in Kelantan, 91% in Terengganu, 84% in Pahang, and 67% in Selangor. Based on these numbers, the project remains on track for full completion by the end of next year, with the section from Kota Bharu to Selangor expected to wrap up by December 2026.
Darwis noted that all elements of the project are progressing simultaneously, and preparations are being made to begin testing and commissioning by June 1, 2026. The communication, information, and signalling (CIS) system across the first 15 stations, from Kota Bharu to Gombak, is expected to be completed either by the end of this year or within the first quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, the final segment between Gombak and Port Klang is projected to finish by December 2027.
The installation of the CIS system has shown efficiency, with a single station being completed in just 40 days. Two electric multiple unit (EMU) trains are also scheduled to arrive in Malaysia by year-end to support testing efforts.
Regarding ticket pricing, Darwis said fares would be determined by the transport ministry in consultation with APAD and other agencies. The transport minister has stated that pricing will be set with public affordability in mind.
