Pahang: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project in Pahang has reached 97.3 percent completion as of last April, announced Pahang Public Works, Transport and Health Committee chairman Datuk Razali Kassim. The overall progress of the mega project stands at 93.66 percent and is expected to be completed by the end of this year, with operations slated to begin in January next year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Razali highlighted the significant infrastructure development within Pahang's transport sector during the Pahang State Legislative Assembly sitting at Wisma Sri Pahang. He attributed this advancement to the implementation of the high-impact ECRL project, underscoring its importance in the region's growth.

Razali announced the establishment of a committee focused on identifying investment and development projects near ECRL stations. This initiative will emphasize the integration of travel modes, with a particular focus on enhancing public transport networks to improve resident mobility. Notable projects include the Integrated Terminal at Bentong Station and the Integrated Public Transport Terminal at Paya Besar Station in Kuantan.

Furthermore, Razali, also the Muadzam Shah state assemblyman, revealed that the Pahang Public Works Department (JKR) had received allocations totaling RM298.8 million as of May 1. These funds are designated for road repair, bridge, and routine maintenance works. Specifically, under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS), RM76.7 million has been allocated for the maintenance of state and village roads.

He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for approving 10 projects under the Works Ministry through Rolling Plan 1 of the 13th Malaysia Plan. This includes six physical projects and four preliminary study and land acquisition projects, with costs exceeding RM686 million. Additionally, the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development has approved seven physical projects aimed at building and upgrading rural roads and bridges, valued at RM328.54 million.