ECRL targets 1.4mil passengers annually from 2027

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) aims for 1.4 million annual passengers on the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) starting 2027, based on a 60 percent load factor expectation. MRL CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak expressed hope for achieving a 90 percent load factor, which would be more favorable.

For the initial ECRL operations in 2027, MRL assumes a 60 percent load factor. If achieved, a 90 percent load factor would be even better, according to Razak during a press conference on ECRL fares. Asked about the need for government operating subsidies to maintain announced fares, Razak stated there is currently no subsidy for ECRL operations.

MRL seeks to cover at least the railway's operating costs through passenger and freight revenue. However, relying solely on passenger revenue to recover project costs could be difficult due to the scale of the investment. Darwis emphasized that the ECRL's value should not be solely measured by financial returns, but also by its wider economic benefits, including the economic activities generated along its route.