Rantau Panjang:Once a bustling border town, Rantau Panjang has experienced a decline in trade and visitor numbers over the years. Local traders remain hopeful for an economic revival with the proposed extension of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ECRL extension is viewed as more than just a new transport option; it is seen as a potential catalyst to rejuvenate economic activities in the town. Many traders who have made their livelihoods here for decades see this initiative as a chance to restore Rantau Panjang to its former bustling state.
A survey conducted by Bernama in the town revealed that while some businesses continue to operate, others remain closed, indicating a shift in the local business landscape. Traders emphasize the importance of customer volume for business survival, eagerly anticipating any efforts to improve accessibility and increase the flow of visitors to the area.
Syed Abu Bakar Syed Daud, a 65-year-old resident who has lived in Rantau Panjang for over 50 years, has witnessed the town's transformation, particularly in terms of reduced visitors and traders. Having started his business over 44 years ago, he has been forced to close two grocery shops and an eatery due to declining commercial activity. He noted that in the past, he could make over RM1,000 in daily sales, but more recently, he struggled to achieve that amount over several days.
The downturn became more noticeable after the COVID-19 pandemic, with visitor numbers and business activity failing to return to pre-pandemic levels. However, the ECRL extension proposal offers hope for traders who wish to see the town thrive again.
Another trader, Fu Chee Kat, 81, who has been in business in Rantau Panjang for over 30 years, also experienced changes in customer patterns. He had to close one of his two shops and now operates with only one employee. Fu mentioned that customers are sometimes reluctant to shop due to concerns about taxes on purchased goods. He hopes the government will reconsider tax policies to encourage retail shopping.
Resident Rozila Salleh, 55, expressed appreciation for the MADANI Government's focus on developing Rantau Panjang under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's leadership. She believes the ECRL extension would enhance transport accessibility and drive development in the border area. Rantau Panjang serves as a key gateway to Thailand, and the extension would provide an additional transport option alongside current land routes.
Media reports previously indicated that Malaysia and China had agreed on the proposal to extend the ECRL project from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, potentially establishing a direct transport link with Thailand. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim noted that the proposal could boost Kelantan's interior economy and strengthen cross-border transport connectivity.
In August, Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that ECRL Phase 1, from Kota Bharu to Gombak, is expected to begin operations this December, ahead of the original January 2027 schedule, subject to successful testing and commissioning processes.