ECRL Phase 1 completed, on track for Dec 12 launch

The 523km Phase 1 alignment stretches from Kota Bharu in Kelantan to Gombak in Selangor and comprises 16 stations. — Picture courtesy of Malaysia Rail Link

By Malay Mail

First Published: Saturday, 07 Nov 2026 3:17 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — China Communications Construction (ECRL) Sdn Bhd (CCCECRL) has completed and handed over Phase 1 of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project to project owner Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), marking a key milestone ahead of the railway’s scheduled commercial launch on December 12.

The 523km Phase 1 alignment stretches from Kota Bharu in Kelantan to Gombak in Selangor and comprises 16 stations, including passenger stations and combined passenger-freight terminals.

MRL chief executive officer Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak said the completion of the Kota Bharu-Gombak rail network would strengthen connectivity between the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia.

“Backed by a modern and state-of-the-art railway system, ECRL’s commercial operations will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainable development.

“We anticipate the ECRL to spur investment opportunities, drive tourism growth, foster job creation, and develop new logistics hubs and industrial parks in the East Coast states,” said Darwis.

According to CCCECRL, the Phase 1 network includes 41 tunnels and 218 viaducts spanning a combined 154km. Among its key engineering features is the 16.39km twin-bore Genting Tunnel.

CCCECRL managing director Deng Bo said the handover represented a major step towards establishing a fully integrated rail link across Peninsular Malaysia.

“The delivery of a fully operational railway system for ECRL Phase 1 represents a defining milestone for cross-peninsular connectivity,” he said.

CCCECRL said its focus has now shifted to Phase 2, which will extend the rail line from Gombak to Port Klang.

Upon completion of the full 665km corridor, the ECRL is expected to provide a direct landbridge linking Kuantan Port and Port Klang, while supporting logistics, industrial development and freight transport across Peninsular Malaysia.