KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) has been asked to promptly assess flood-affected areas, particularly in the East Coast, to determine whether the construction of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) has contributed to the disaster. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said there is a need for MRL to implement mitigation measures to reduce the burden on flood-hit residents and address recurring flooding issues.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke mentioned that Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) services had also been impacted as rising floodwaters have disrupted railway operations in several locations. Loke stated that for areas where floods are linked to the ECRL project, he would instruct MRL to act swiftly and implement mitigation measures. He clarified that changing the alignment is not an option, as the bridges and viaducts are already in place, but mitigation efforts are possible. This was stated while winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2025 at the committee level for the Transport Minist
ry (MoT) at the Dewan Rakyat today.

Loke also expressed his sympathies for residents of the East Coast who are severely affected by the floods. Earlier, the Meteorological Department issued a dangerous-level continuous heavy rainfall warning for Kelantan, Terengganu, and parts of Pahang, including Kuantan and Jerantut, until Friday.

Meanwhile, Loke revealed that MoT has been in discussions with the Finance Ministry (MoF) regarding diesel subsidies to support ferry operators nationwide. He mentioned that good news is on the way, with MoF having no objections in principle, but he needs black and white confirmation to proceed. The subsidies aim to ensure the sustainability of ferry services and would benefit all ferry operators across Malaysia, not just those in Penang. This approach seeks to maintain affordable ticket prices while helping operators sustain operations amid financial challenges.

On motorcycle e-hailing services, Loke said the concept has been explored previously but received limited interest.
However, MoT remains open to new proposals, provided they include a proof-of-concept (POC). Loke added that culturally, Malaysians aren’t inclined towards motorcycle e-hailing, but if the POC proves successful, he is open to supporting this initiative, particularly to address first-and last-mile connectivity.