Construction of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) has reached 92.62% completion as of February 2026, bringing the long-anticipated rail link closer to transforming connectivity between Malaysia’s east coast and the Klang Valley.
Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan said the Kota Bharu-Gombak alignment is expected to be completed by the end of this year, paving the way for the first phase of commercial operations in January 2027.
The second phase connecting Gombak to Port Klang is scheduled for completion by December 2027, with the entire line expected to be fully operational by January 2028.
“The ECRL project has recorded another important milestone today with the completion of the 519-km main track alignment from Kota Bharu to Gombak, ahead of schedule. This achievement clearly reflects the strong dedication and close cooperation between Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd and China Communications Construction (CCC)-ECRL, as well as the solid support from all parties involved,
A key milestone was reached with the completion of the 519-kilometre main track alignment from Kota Bharu to Gombak, which was achieved ahead of schedule.
The project, implemented by Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd with construction led by China Communications Construction Company, forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Malaysia’s transport infrastructure and logistics competitiveness.
Once operational, the electrified railway will span 665 kilometres and support both passenger services and freight movement.
The introduction of electric multiple unit (EMU) trains and electric locomotives is also expected to position the ECRL as a lower-carbon transportation option compared with road freight.
Beyond passenger mobility, the rail line is expected to unlock new economic activity along the east coast corridor by improving connectivity between industrial zones, ports and inland logistics hubs.
