Project Profile: East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Malaysia

The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is a landmark standard-gauge railway project engineered to bridge the economic divide between Peninsular Malaysia’s east and west coasts. This profile details the technical specifications and strategic objectives of this critical infrastructure, which connects the key industrial hub of Port Klang with the state of Kelantan on the South China Sea.

Technical Specifications

The ECRL is a double-track, standard-gauge (1435mm) electrified railway designed for mixed passenger and freight traffic. The alignment traverses challenging terrain, necessitating extensive civil engineering works, including over 100km of viaducts and 40 tunnels totaling 69km. A standout feature is the 7km-long tunnel section between Jelebu and Semenyih, a significant feat of subterranean engineering. Construction incorporates advanced methodologies, such as the use of a CCPG500A track-laying machine, which enables an installation rate of up to 2.5km per day. The project will feature 20 strategically located stations, including 10 dedicated to passengers and 10 serving as combined passenger and freight hubs, integrating the line into Malaysia’s national logistics network.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Corridor Creation: The ECRL establishes a new land bridge, directly connecting the major maritime hub of Port Klang with the Kuantan Port and economic zones on the east coast, fundamentally enhancing trade logistics.
• Regional Development Catalyst: By reducing travel time between Kota Bharu and the Klang Valley to approximately four hours, the project is poised to stimulate tourism, investment, and job creation in the less-developed eastern states.
• Logistical Efficiency: The railway prioritizes freight, with a projected 70/30 revenue split between freight and passenger services, aiming to shift cargo from road to rail and alleviate highway congestion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the ECRL be operational?

The East Coast Rail Link is expected to commence full operations in January 2027, following its scheduled completion in December 2026.

Who is building the ECRL?

The ECRL is being built by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), a global engineering and construction firm. The project owner is Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia’s Minister of Finance Incorporated.