The future East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project connecting Malaysia’s East Coast is now 88% complete!
- Erik & Aya
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
The photo is for illustrative purposes only.
East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Project
In Malaysia, the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is currently underway as a major national infrastructure project. This railway stretches across the Malay Peninsula for a total length of 665 km, starting from Kota Bharu in Kelantan on the east coast, passing through Terengganu and Pahang, and ending at Port Klang in Selangor on the west coast.
The project is owned by Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) and is being constructed by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), which is responsible for the design, construction, and trial operation in an integrated manner.
The ECRL project is not merely a railway construction; it aims to connect cities and towns along the route and significantly improve public transportation in the region. With an electrified railway operating at a maximum speed of 160 km/h, travel time from Kota Bharu to the Gombak Integrated Transport Terminal in Selangor will be reduced to approximately 4 hours. The project is expected to boost commerce, tourism, and job creation. As of the end of October 2025, the overall progress of the project reached 88%, and it is expected to achieve 90% completion by the end of the year.
From Klang Valley to the East Coast
To travel from the Klang Valley to the East Coast via the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), it is convenient to use the Integrated Transport Terminal-Gombak (ITT-Gombak).
At this terminal, the existing Gombak LRT station is planned to be connected with the ECRL station. The terminal will also serve as a hub for intercity buses to the Klang Valley. It is located right next to the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) and provides easy access to the Karak Highway within a few minutes.
Attractions Along the East Coast Rail Link
With the travel time from Gombak Station to Kota Bharu Station reduced to approximately 4 hours, the East Coast is set to become more accessible for residents of the Klang Valley. Let’s take a look at some of the attractions along the route.
①Bentong
Bentong in Pahang is famous for its ginger production. In addition to ginger, the area is dotted with vegetable farms and durian orchards, making it a region with thriving agriculture.
Located not far from Kuala Lumpur, Bentong is about a 30-minute drive away. One recommended spot is Sempah T-Farm, featured by Tabiniko, where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining while immersing yourself in nature.
Further north beyond Bentong is Raub, also highlighted by Tabiniko, which is home to durian farms. A must-visit for durian lovers, the region offers a variety of farm experiences starting from Bentong.
②Kuantan
Kuantan, the capital of Pahang, is a regional city with numerous shopping centers. As a port town, it also features seafood restaurants and Chempadak Beach, a popular spot for locals to relax.
③Cherating
Cherating, located along the east coast of Pahang, is a popular area with many resort hotels. It attracts numerous travelers and features facilities such as Club Med.
④Chukai
Chukai, a small town along the east coast of Terengganu, does not have many notable attractions. However, local restaurants serve a specialty dish called Stuffed Crab, which is made by filling a crab shell with crab meat, vegetables, and other ingredients.
⑤Kuala Terengganu
Kuala Terengganu, the capital of Terengganu, offers a unique local atmosphere, with approximately 95% of its population being Malay. It’s also a great opportunity to purchase Terengganu’s distinctive batik, which can serve as a memorable souvenir.
⑥Kota Bharu
Kota Bharu, the capital of Kelantan, is a city near the Thai border. Like Terengganu, approximately 95% of the population is Malay. It’s a good idea to explore the cultural zones, including museums. Similar to Terengganu, Friday is a public holiday, so visitors should take note when planning their trip.
East Coast Rail Link Construction: Challenges and Initiatives
Theft and Construction Risks
Along the route, there have been repeated thefts of copper cables and transformers. By the end of October 2025, a total of 32 cases were reported in Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan, with losses totaling approximately 3 million MYR. In particular, in September 2025, 1,080 meters of copper wire were stolen, and ten suspects were arrested.
Many ECRL components are custom-made, so if theft or damage occurs, it can take several months to procure replacements from China, potentially affecting the construction schedule. Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) and the construction company have implemented measures such as security guards and CCTV installation to maintain progress, but careful management remains essential.
Preparedness for Natural Disasters
In preparation for the annual monsoon season on the East Coast, MRL has identified high-risk areas along the route and established a system to quickly deliver relief supplies via the ECRL in the event of flooding. The entire Terengganu corridor and the Pasir Putih area in Kelantan are being closely monitored, and construction work is planned to proceed while ensuring safety and order.
Contribution to the Local Economy and Participation of Bumiputera Contractors
The ECRL project provides opportunities for Bumiputera-registered contractors in the surrounding areas to participate in small-scale works, such as signage installation, fencing, and landscaping. This arrangement is expected to contribute directly to the local economy, ensuring that the benefits of the project reach the community. At the same time, challenges such as work decentralization and subcontractor management remain.
The ECRL, as a new railway connecting the east and west of Malaysia, is a project that will significantly transform regional mobility and have a direct impact on the lives and economy of communities along the route.
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📚 Sources Official Website of Malaysia Rail Line https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ecrl/
New Straits Times "ECRL nears 90pc completion, trains to come by year end"(30 Oct. 2025)
https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2025/10/1305178/ecrl-nears-90pc-completion-trains-come-year-end
New Straits Times "MRL CEO: ECRL remains on schedule, but cable thefts pose delay risk"(30 Oct. 2025)
https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2025/10/1305271/mrl-ceo-ecrl-remains-schedule-cable-thefts-pose-delay-risk New Straits Times"ECRL faces security setbacks after RM3mil cable thefts"(14 Oct. 2025) https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/10/1294493/ecrl-faces-security-setbacks-after-rm3mil-cable-thefts
