In an impressive display of efficiency and innovation, the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has reached a significant milestone, with the completion of the track installation for its first phase—spanning a 92km stretch from Kuantan Port City (KPC) in Pahang to Dungun, Terengganu—a full month ahead of the anticipated schedule. This accomplishment underscores Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing its rail infrastructure and connectivity, paving the way for a more integrated and accessible transportation network across the country.
Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak, the Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), attributed this early completion to the deployment of the CCPG-500A track-laying machine, a technological marvel that has significantly expedited the track-laying process. “Leveraging this innovative technology allowed us to lay between 1.5km to 2.0km of tracks daily, culminating in the early completion of the KPC-to-Dungun stretch by the end of February. This achievement enables us to commence full operations starting March,” Darwis explained during the project’s Iftar ceremony held on March 19.
The ceremony, which also served as a platform to celebrate the project’s progress, was attended by notable figures including Razali Kassim, representing the Pahang menteri besar, who echoed the significance of the ECRL project for the region’s development. Darwis also noted that the ECRL project had seamlessly transitioned into its second phase on March 9, focusing on laying tracks along a 90km mainline from KPC to Maran, Pahang, further illustrating the project’s swift progression.
Spanning 258km in Pahang, the ECRL project is an ambitious undertaking designed to transform Malaysia’s rail infrastructure. It includes the construction of seven stations, with Cherating and KotaSAS dedicated to passenger services, while KPC, Paya Besar, Maran, Temerloh, and Bentong stations will serve both passengers and cargo, enhancing the logistics and transportation framework within the region.
In addition to celebrating this milestone, the Iftar event also highlighted MRL’s commitment to social responsibility, with Razali presenting donation cheques to 30 orphans and staff from the Baitul Mukmin welfare organization and Permata Al Insyirah home, underscoring the project’s dedication not only to infrastructural development but also to the well-being of the community it serves.
The ECRL project, with its innovative approach and community-focused initiatives, sets a new standard for rail development in Malaysia, promising to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
