Kuala Lumpur:The proposed extension of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) to Rantau Panjang, Kelantan, is anticipated to enhance Malaysia's regional connectivity. This development follows the recent opening of China's Pinglu Canal, as stated by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ECRL extension was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim after his visit to China, during which Malaysia and China agreed to extend the rail link from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang.

The Pinglu Canal, officially opened on September 16, is a 134.2-kilometer waterway in China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It connects the Xijiang River system to the Beibu Gulf and is designed to accommodate vessels of up to 5,000 tonnes, offering southwestern China a shorter route to the sea and ASEAN markets.

Loke highlighted that Malaysia and China already have a port alliance, with discussions on enhancing collaboration between ports in both countries taking place during his recent visit to China. He accompanied Anwar on a three-day working visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou at the invitation of the Chinese government.

He further stated that the collaboration between Kuantan Port and Guangxi is crucial, as it will link Malaysia with Thailand's rail network on the east coast. Establishing a connection from Thailand to the Malaysian border and subsequently linking it to the ECRL would strengthen the Pan-Asian rail network.

The minister emphasized that integrating rail with ports is vital for creating a significant transportation network for Malaysia and the region. This integration is expected to bring economic and strategic benefits, ensuring an undisrupted supply chain.