Terengganu Achieves Remarkable 90% Completion in ECRL Project
The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project in Terengganu has achieved the highest progress among the four states involved, with a 90% completion rate, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.
During a visit to the Dungun station, which is 58% complete, Ahmad Samsuri reaffirmed that the construction is on schedule. He highlighted the significant potential for economic growth through Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) around the station areas, despite the challenges of infrastructure readiness in new development zones.
Transit-Oriented Development: A Catalyst for Growth
Terengganu is adopting a TOD model to maximize the economic impact of the ECRL stations. TOD emphasizes mixed-use urban planning that integrates housing, commercial spaces, and efficient transportation systems around transit hubs.
Ahmad Samsuri emphasized the state’s openness to collaborating with investors to develop TOD projects:
“The state government is very open to discussions with investors who want to jointly develop TOD. Infrastructure readiness is crucial to attracting these investments,” he noted.
Key measures include:
- Formulating a TOD strategy through coordination between the State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN), the state secretary, and the state finance officer.
- Collaborating with agencies like the Irrigation and Drainage Department, Public Works Department, and Tenaga Nasional Bhd to address flood mitigation and infrastructure development.
Challenges and Strategic Initiatives
Flood Mitigation
Ahmad Samsuri acknowledged that some ECRL stations, especially those eight to nine meters above sea level, require land reclamation and flood-prevention measures.
- Coordination with relevant agencies is underway to ensure that access roads and construction sites are protected against flooding.
Infrastructure Readiness
The focus remains on ensuring road access, utilities, and drainage systems are in place to enable seamless TOD development.
Breakwater Construction in Batu Rakit
In another significant development, the construction of 16 breakwaters in Batu Rakit, Kuala Nerus, will resume shortly to address coastal erosion issues.
The project had been delayed due to rough sea conditions, which prevented barge vessels carrying rocks from reaching the construction area. Ahmad Samsuri indicated that the final phase of large wave activity, as forecasted by the Malaysian Meteorological Department, should allow for the resumption of work soon.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has pledged his commitment to resolving these challenges, with plans to visit Terengganu for further assessments.
A Bright Future for Terengganu and the ECRL
With the ECRL nearing completion and plans for TOD in full swing, Terengganu is poised to become a regional hub for economic activity and innovation. The integration of efficient transportation systems and well-planned urban developments will not only enhance connectivity but also foster sustainable growth across the state.
The state government’s proactive measures to address challenges, such as flood mitigation and infrastructure readiness, underscore its commitment to ensuring the success of these transformative projects.
