The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is set to mark a significant milestone as system installation works at the KotaSAS Central Station are now complete.
It’s now the first station along the 665-KM alignment to achieve this progress. KotaSAS holds symbolic value for the project - it was the site of the groundbreaking ceremony in Aug 2017, officiated by former PM Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
The ECRL spans four states - Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Selangor - and will feature 20 stations. It is expected to reach 90% overall completion by the end of this year.
Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak said the project had recorded 82.45% overall progress as of April. Regionally, progress stands at 89% in Kelantan, 91% in Terengganu, 84% in Pahang and 67% in Selangor.
“These figures show the project is advancing steadily. With continued support from all involved states, we’re confident of hitting the 90% mark by year-end,” he said during a ceremony at the KotaSAS Station.
The event marked the successful installation of the Communication, Information and Signalling (CIS) systems at the station. These systems ensure safe, efficient and reliable train operations through automated train protection, traffic control and real-time passenger information.
Darwis further noted the completion reflects years of collaboration between MRL and project contractor China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).
The ECRL plans to begin testing and commissioning in June 2026. Two six-car Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trains for passengers and two Electric Locomotives (E-Loco) for freight are expected to arrive in Malaysia by year-end. Full delivery of all 11 EMU sets and 12 E-Locos is scheduled by June 2026.
The ECRL will link Kota Baru to the Gombak Integrated Transport Terminal, with operations slated to begin in Jan 2027. Meanwhile the final stretch to Port Klang is expected to open by Jan 2028.
Source: NSTP