Kota bharu: The proposal to extend the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas is still under review by Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) and the Ministry of Transport. Kelantan Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan emphasized its relevance, noting the agreement between the Malaysian and Thai governments to revive the railway line between Pasir Mas and Sungai Golok under Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), aiming to reconnect the railway networks of the two countries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Kelantan government is advocating for the ECRL extension to Rantau Panjang, diverging from the original plan that targeted Tumpat. This proposal is being carefully studied by the MRL and the Ministry of Transport. Mohamed Fadzli addressed this issue in response to a supplementary question by Mohd Adanan Hassan (PAS-Kelaboran) at the State Legislative Assembly sitting in Kota Darulnaim Complex.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has also indicated that his ministry is considering the proposal to extend the ECRL route to reinforce the connection with Thailand. Mohamed Fadzli further outlined the strategic plans drafted by the state government to maximize the development around the ECRL project. These plans aim to leverage the potential of the manufacturing sector to spur economic growth in the state.

Key initiatives include the development of Cargo Oriented Development (COD) at Pasir Puteh Station to attract investments and stimulate economic activities such as transportation services and raw material supply. The Transit Oriented Development (TOD) at Tunjong Station, Kota Bharu, is also expected to rejuvenate Tunjong as a new township, balancing mobility, employment, and living standards.

The ECRL project is projected to be completed by the end of 2026, with train services from Kota Bharu to Gombak, Selangor set to commence in January 2027. The subsequent line from Gombak to Port Klang is anticipated to be finished by the following year.