East Coast Rail Link to connect Malaysia's east and west coasts

Malaysia is advancing the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project, a 665-kilometer infrastructure initiative designed to connect the country’s east and west coasts. The rail line will traverse the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Selangor, stretching from Kota Bharu to Port Klang. Passenger trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour.

The project is scheduled to be implemented in two stages. The first stage, connecting Kota Bharu to Gombak, is targeted for operation by January 2027. The second stage, extending from Gombak to Port Klang, is slated for January 2028.

Local stakeholders in areas such as Rantau Panjang view the ECRL as a potential economic lifeline for the Malaysia-Thailand border region. There are calls for the rail stations to be strategically located within free trade zones to maximize logistical advantages, support local businesses, and revitalize border trade and tourism.