Port Klang-Kota Bharu
The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is a major infrastructure project in Malaysia, designed to connect the East Coast states-Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang-to the Klang Valley on the West Coast, ultimately linking Kota Bharu to Gombak and further to Port Klang. The project is highly anticipated for its potential to transform connectivity and economic growth across the region.
East Coast Rail Line
It connecting the East Coast states of Peninsular Malaysia to the Greater Klang Valley
Connecting: Kota Bharu (Kelantan) to Port Klang (Selangor)
Key Technical Details
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 665 km |
| Number of Stations | 20 |
| Maximum Passenger Speed | 160 km/h |
| Travel Time (Kota Bharu–Gombak) | ~4 hours |
| Planned Opening | 1 January 2027 |
| Current Completion (Apr 2025) | 82.45% |
| Electrification | 11 kV 50 Hz overhead line |
| Track Gauge | 1,435 mm (standard gauge) |
| Operator | Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd & CCCC JV |
Current Progress and Timeline
- As of April 2025, the ECRL project is 82.45% complete, ahead of its construction schedule.
- The main stretch from Kota Bharu to Gombak (665 km) is on track for completion by December 2026, with full operations expected to commence on 1 January 2027.
- Construction milestones include the completion of track installation from Maran to Kota Bharu and significant progress in tunnel boring, with 38 out of 41 tunnels excavated.
- Station construction is progressing well and is expected to be finished by mid-2026, with testing and commissioning of the system beginning in June 2026.
East Coast Rail Line, Route and Travel Time
- The ECRL will span 665 km, featuring 20 stations and connecting major cities such as Kota Bharu, Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, Bentong, and Gombak.
- Passenger trains will operate at speeds up to 160 km/h, reducing travel time from Kota Bharu to Gombak to approximately 4 hours.
- The train will pass through key cities like Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, and Bentong in less than 2 hours from Gombak, offering a fast and efficient alternative to road travel.
- The line is double-tracked and electrified, using modern rolling stock for both passenger and freight services.
Economic and Social Impact
- The ECRL is expected to spur commercial activities, boost tourism, create job opportunities, and drive investments along its corridor.
- The project will also strengthen links between Malaysia’s east and west coasts, enhancing logistics and regional integration.
Planned ECRL Stations
Here is the Planned ECRL Stations (as of 2025):
Kelantan
- Wakaf Bharu
- Kota Bharu
- Pasir Puteh
Terengganu
- Jerteh
- Kuala Besut (optional/future station)
- Kuala Terengganu
- Kuala Nerus
- Dungun
- Kemaman
Pahang
- Cherating
- Gebeng
- Kuantan Port City
- Kuantan Sentral
- Maran
- Mentakab
Selangor
- Bentong
- Gombak (Interchange with LRT Kelana Jaya Line)
- ITT Gombak (Integrated Transport Terminal)
- Serendah
- Port Klang
East Coast Rail Link
The ECRL is progressing ahead of schedule, with over 82% completion as of April 2025. The 665 km line will enable travel from Gombak to Kota Bharu in about 4 hours, passing through major East Coast cities in under 2 hours. The project is on track to begin operations on 1 January 2027, promising significant economic and social benefits for Malaysia’s East Coast and beyond.
