The East Coast Rail Link is 91.7% complete and has entered its operational testing phase, with the first trains arriving ahead of its planned January 2027 launch.
KUANTAN: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has achieved 91.7% physical construction progress as of January. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the project is now transitioning into its operational preparation and testing phase.
He stated this shift follows the arrival of Malaysia’s first electric multiple unit (EMU) passenger trains and electric locomotives (E-Loco). “With the receipt of the EMU and E-Loco, we will enter an important phase, which is train testing and commissioning,” Loke said at a press conference.
He confirmed this aligns with the overall schedule for the RM50.27 billion project. Loke expressed confidence that the planned timeline for ECRL to commence operations in January 2027 can be achieved.
“The remaining months will be fully utilised for all testing and related activities,” he added. The minister was speaking after officiating the launch ceremony for the new trains at KotaSAS Station.
The 665-kilometre rail link has allocated 11 six-car EMU train sets for passenger services and 12 E-Locos for cargo. Two of each have already arrived in Malaysia, with the remainder scheduled to arrive in stages over the coming months.
Each EMU train set can operate at speeds of up to 160 km/h. They are configured to accommodate up to 425 passengers in an all-economy class layout.
The train designs are inspired by Malaysian art and culture. They are equipped with toilets, luggage racks, food counters, prayer rooms, and facilities for passengers with disabilities.
Loke also highlighted the initiative to provide mobile network infrastructure along the ECRL route. He said this is crucial for ensuring passenger convenience and connectivity throughout the journey.
In his speech, he said the government aims to better integrate the East and West Coasts through the ECRL. The project is expected to improve mobility, reduce travel time, and bridge regional development gaps.
“East Coast residents in the Klang Valley will only have to wait one more Syawal to return home for Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2027 using the ECRL,” Loke remarked. The event included a round trip for guests from KotaSAS Station to Kuantan Port City.
(Bernama)
