ECRL Reaches 89% Completion Ahead of Year-End Target, Says MRL CEO

KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 25) — The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has reached 89% completion as of October, placing it firmly on track to hit its year-end target of 90%, according to Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak.

Darwis credited the progress to strong coordination between MRL and its engineering partners, noting that preparations are gradually shifting toward testing and commissioning, scheduled to begin in mid-2026.

Operational Timeline Confirmed

According to MRL:

• Phase 1 (Kota Bharu – Gombak Integrated Terminal)
  Expected start of operations: January 2027

• Phase 2 (Gombak – Port Klang)
  Expected start of operations: January 2028

Darwis said both phases will reshape Malaysia’s transportation landscape by improving inter-state mobility and supporting long-term economic expansion along the rail corridor.

Terengganu Leads in Construction Progress

Among the four states involved — Kelantan, Pahang, Terengganu and Selangor — Terengganu recorded the highest completion rate at 94.82% for its 242 km stretch, which includes six stations.

“This reflects the exceptional efficiency and commitment shown by the implementing teams,” Darwis said.

With a total route length of 665 km, the ECRL remains one of the federal government’s largest ongoing infrastructure undertakings, underscoring continued cooperation between Malaysia and China.

Focus on Transit-Oriented Development

During the event, the Terengganu state government and MRL signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support transit-oriented development (TOD) around ECRL stations statewide.

Key collaboration goals include:

• Coordinating integrated development plans around stations

• Enhancing public transport usage

• Optimising land-use and land availability

• Attracting private investment and stimulating commercial activity

Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said the MOU ensures development progresses in a structured, people-centric manner, adding that the timing is ideal for attracting new investors into the state.

Broader Market Relevance in Greater KL

Major infrastructure projects like the ECRL continue to influence real estate demand across the Klang Valley, supporting expansion in areas such as:

• Commercial property in KL expected to benefit from improved connectivity

• Strong demand for industrial land in Selangor and industrial property in the Subang area, boosted by logistics and rail accessibility

• Rising interest in transit-ready workspaces including office space in Bukit Jalil

• Enhanced connectivity supporting manufacturing clusters and demand for factory units in Puchong

The ECRL’s progress reinforces long-term confidence across the property and industrial sectors.