Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim experienced China’s high-speed rail network firsthand while travelling from Shanghai to Hangzhou.
HANGZHOU: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim experienced China’s efficient transport technology firsthand when he travelled by high-speed rail (HSR) from Shanghai to Hangzhou on Wednesday, as he continued his working visit to Zhejiang province.
The Prime Minister, together with the Malaysian delegation and media personnel, travelled about 160 kilometres in approximately 45 minutes. The journey allowed the Malaysian delegation to experience the efficiency and convenience of modern infrastructure that is a hallmark of China’s public transport system and cross-regional connectivity.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, met Malaysian media personnel covering his visit and answered several questions.
“Yes, this is my first time (taking a high-speed train) in China. Previously, I experienced it in Japan and took the (Eurostar) from Paris to London a long time ago. Of course, you look at the service, speed, and convenience. Everything is good. But first, let’s look at the ECRL, followed by some of the other steps we are taking,” he said when asked about his experience.
Anwar said any consideration of rail services would have to take into account the cost and implementation schedule, noting that there were various forms of rail transport. However, he said the government must prioritise infrastructure and facilities based on the country’s needs, such as school repairs.
The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is a 665-kilometre land transport project connecting the west and east coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. It will run from Kota Bharu to Port Klang and comprises 20 stations – 10 passenger stations and 10 stations serving both freight and passenger services.
The ECRL project is expected to be among the topics discussed at a bilateral meeting between Anwar and Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday.
