Kota bharu: Malaysia is set to revive the railway connection from Rantau Panjang to Sungai Golok, Thailand, as part of its efforts to enhance transport links and economic relations between the two nations, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative involves reactivating the Rantau Panjang Corridor through a rail link between Pasir Mas and Rantau Panjang. This includes track rehabilitation works to enable Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) services to operate up to the border area. The project, part of Malaysia's medium-term planning, will be implemented by the ministry.

Loke stated that Malaysia welcomes Thailand's intention to extend its rail network to Rantau Panjang. However, changes in the Thai government over the past year have disrupted the continuity of discussions. He mentioned previous agreements made with the Thai Transport Minister, which have been stalled due to ministerial changes and impending elections in Thailand.

Further discussions are anticipated to resume following the formation of a new Thai government. The State Railway of Thailand has shown interest in extending its rail network to the Rantau Panjang Corridor. Loke expressed Malaysia's readiness and hope for the project's implementation.

The project is included in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and is currently at the tender documentation preparation stage, with tenders expected to be called soon. The implementation period is projected to take about two years.

Media reports previously indicated that the Pasir Mas-Rantau Panjang railway upgrading project, estimated to cost RM264 million, is expected to start this year. Approved under Rolling Plan 1 of the 13MP for 2026, it will be executed by the Railway Assets Corporation, with procurement anticipated to begin in the first quarter of the year.

The project aims to reactivate the route for passenger and cargo train services, bolstering cross-border rail connectivity between Malaysia and Thailand through a link to Sungai Golok, Thailand.