Malaysia, China agree on proposed ECRL extension to Rantau Panjang, says Anwar

HANGZHOU, September 24 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and China's Premier Li Qiang have reached an agreement on the proposed extension of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, Kelantan. The project aims to bring economic growth to previously neglected regions of Kelantan and establish a direct transport link with Thailand.

Anwar further discussed the proposal with Malaysian media after concluding his working visit to China. The 665-kilometre ECRL project provides fast cross-regional services connecting the West and East Coasts of Peninsular Malaysia, with 20 stations, including both passenger and mixed freight and passenger stations. During his visit, Anwar also received positive feedback on the ECRL proposal from Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

The bilateral talks between Anwar and Li Qiang covered strategic issues for both countries and the ASEAN region, as well as key agenda items for the upcoming meeting between US President Donald J. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington, DC. Anwar also congratulated 22 Malaysian participants competing at the 48th WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, and inaugurated the Malaysia Pavilion at the Fifth Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou.