ECRL project reaches 85pc completion; Chief Secretary to the Government calls for strict monitoring to ensure 2027 launch stays on track

KUALA LUMPUR, July 5 — Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) has been directed to closely oversee the implementation of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project, which has now reached 85 per cent completion.

Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar issued the directive during the 32nd MRL Board of Directors meeting, held in conjunction with the company's retreat that began yesterday in Melaka.

He emphasized that MRL must ensure the project remains on schedule and free from disruptions such as encroachment on rail infrastructure by irresponsible parties, which could potentially delay the targeted early 2027 operational launch.

“I am confident that the ECRL will stand as a national landmark and act as a catalyst for economic revitalisation along its alignment and surrounding areas, directly benefiting the rakyat and the country,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Shamsul Azri added that this ambition aligns with the 'Kesejahteraan' (prosperity) component of the MADANI framework, which requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach involving collaboration across federal, state, and private sectors.

In a separate post, he highlighted the importance of the MRL retreat in refining the strategic direction and operational targets for ECRL services.

“MRL is working with various stakeholders to build an efficient rail operating ecosystem, while also creating job opportunities for local communities,” he said.

He noted that the project is poised to boost business activity, stimulate economic growth, and enhance connectivity between the West and East Coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. — Bernama