Malaysia completes rail installation for ECRL Kota Bharu-Gombak section

Kuala Lumpur — A ceremony was held on Monday, 16 March at Gombak station on the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), marking an important milestone for Malaysia’s ECRL as rail installation was completed on the Kota Bharu-Gombak section of the megaproject railway being undertaken by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).

Speaking at the event, Malaysia’s Second Minister of Finance Amir Hamzah Azizan stated that the 519-kilometre stretch was completed ahead of schedule, highlighting the efficient synergy and close cooperation between Malaysia and China.

“The railway line spanning over 600 kilometres is not only a strategic national asset but also a symbol of close cooperation between our two nations,” said Malaysian Government Principal Secretary Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, adding that the railway will provide the public with a more modern, efficient, and safe travel experience whilst transforming Malaysia’s transport system.

With the completion of rail installation for the Kota Bharu-Gombak section, electric multiple unit (EMU) trains will soon undergo unobstructed trial runs covering 8,000 kilometres, marking an important step towards commercial operation, said Deng Bo, Executive Director of CCC-ECRL.

The ECRL, a flagship project under China-Malaysia Belt and Road Initiative cooperation, spans over 600 kilometres in total. The first phase, stretching from Kota Bharu to Gombak, is scheduled to commence operations in January 2027. Construction work is currently entering subsequent phases and operational preparations.