ECRL explained: How fast, how far and when will Malaysia’s new East Coast rail link open?

The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) in Malaysia could start carrying passengers as early as mid-December, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The government aims to complete the 665km electrified rail network before launching other high-speed rail projects. The ECRL will link Kota Bharu in Kelantan to Port Klang in Selangor via Terengganu, Pahang and the Greater Klang Valley.

The network will be built in two phases: the Kota Bharu-to-Gombak stretch with the original target of January 2027, and the Gombak-to-Port Klang section scheduled for January 2028. Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced in August that the first phase is on track for completion by December, with passenger services potentially beginning as early as mid-December.

The ECRL will feature 11 six-car Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) built by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) Dalian, capable of carrying up to 425 passengers in an all-economy configuration. These trains operate at speeds of up to 160km/h and include amenities such as toilets, luggage racks, food-and-beverage counters, prayer rooms, and facilities for passengers with disabilities. The full network is planned with 20 stations, ten for passengers only and ten serving both passengers and freight.

The Malaysian government is pushing for an earlier opening, particularly to accommodate the year-end school holidays. The ECRL will also handle freight services, with electric locomotives capable of operating at 80km/h and carrying up to 45 wagons, equivalent to 3,500 tonnes per trip. Comprehensive testing is underway, with more than 40 CIT test runs and 12 freight train tests completed by September 18. The ECRL is also expected to announce fares by the end of the year.