Kota Bharu: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is set to meet its deadline by December 2026, with the alignment from Kota Bharu to Selangor reaching 81.07% completion as of last month.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project’s progress includes 90% completion in Terengganu and 86% in Pahang. Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) CEO, Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak, highlighted the significant role of the Kelantan government in facilitating the project, particularly in resolving land acquisition issues. The 43-kilometre alignment in Kelantan has achieved 88.86% completion, contributing to the overall progress. The testing and commissioning process is anticipated to start in June 2026.

Track laying has advanced in Kelantan, Terengganu, and parts of Pahang, covering the 400-kilometre stretch from Tunjong, Kota Bharu, to Maran in Pahang. Darwis shared these updates during a site inspection at the Pasir Puteh ECRL Station.

The construction of two ECRL stations in Kelantan, Tunjong and Pasir Puteh, is progressing well, with completion rates of 69% and 68%, respectively. Both stations are expected to be completed by May next year.

Most concerns raised by residents, such as flash floods in Pasir Puteh, have been addressed through collaboration with the Land and District Office, local authorities, and the state government since last year. Darwis emphasized their commitment to resolving issues to ensure the project’s timely completion and benefits to the people.

The 665-kilometre ECRL project connects the East Coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang to Selangor on the West Coast. The line from Kota Bharu to the Gombak Integrated Terminal is expected to be operational by January 2027.