Terengganu: The Terengganu State Government will accelerate transit-oriented development (TOD) at six East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project stations in the state, following the target for Phase 1 operations to begin this December, ahead of the original schedule of January 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said this step is important to ensure that facilities and development around the ECRL stations can be fully utilised to spur local economic activities while opening up opportunities for the rakyat. He noted that the state government had previously held discussions with various parties, including related companies, to identify the potential for TOD development at the six stations.
Dr Ahmad Samsuri expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts of China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC) and Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), in conjunction with the Ministry of Transport and the state government, which have facilitated the efficient implementation of this project. He welcomed the advancement of the project's operational date from January 2027 to December of this year, as announced at a press conference following the Launch of the Ignis 3R Solid Waste Recovery Plant at the Bukit Gelugor Garbage Disposal Site near Kerteh.
The Menteri Besar outlined that the state government has developed the design and framework for facilities around the ECRL stations, with implementation reliant on agreements and involvement from private investors coordinated by MRL and Terengganu Incorporated. The state aims to provide basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water, while not bearing the full cost of the development.
Dr Ahmad Samsuri urged the local community, particularly entrepreneurs, to seize opportunities for establishing supporting businesses around the ECRL stations to stimulate the local economy. He emphasized the importance of viewing the ECRL not just as a passenger service but as a means for transporting goods to enhance economic returns, highlighting the necessity for companies to engage with the ECRL cargo service for broader economic benefits.
Furthermore, he noted that the construction of the ECRL route alignment to Kemaman Port would significantly drive economic growth for companies near the port, including state government subsidiary Eastern Pacific Industrial Corporation (EPIC) Berhad. The media reported that the Phase 1 ECRL service from Kota Bharu to Gombak is set to commence this December, contingent upon successful testing and commissioning processes.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke was quoted as saying that the operational timeline depends on the successful completion of System Integration Testing (SIT) and Fault-Free Run (FFR) processes, ensuring no compromise on safety.