The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has reached 89% completion as of October, with the possibility of achieving 90% by the end of the year, according to Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak, as reported by Bernama.
He said preparations are gradually shifting towards the testing and commissioning phase, which is expected to begin in mid-2026. If all goes according to plan, operations for the Kota Bharu–Gombak Integrated Terminal stretch are targeted to commence in January 2027.
The second phase of the alignment, from Gombak to Port Klang, is projected to begin operations in January 2028, marking a significant milestone for Malaysia’s rail and logistics infrastructure.
Darwis added that construction progress in Terengganu, which spans six stations over 242 km, is currently the highest among the four states, reaching nearly 95% completion. The other states involved are Pahang, Kelantan and Selangor.
During the MoU signing between the Terengganu state government and MRL on facilitating transit-oriented development (TOD) around ECRL stations, Terengganu chief minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar emphasised the importance of coordinated development.
“With the support of TOD governance structures in each district involved, development can proceed in an organised, responsible manner and remain focused on the people’s interests. This is also an ideal time for us to attract investors,” he said.
Meanwhile, discussions are underway regarding a potential extension of the ECRL to Rantau Panjang, located at the Malaysia-Thailand border, with Sungai Golok situated on the Thai side.
