ECRL to help further boost Malaysia's economy
The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) stretching 688km will be among key elements in boosting Malaysia's economy as it gives a competitive edge, as well as attract foreign investments, especially from China, Former Transport Minister Tan Sri Ong Tee Keat said.
Ong, who is also Malaysia-China Silk Road Business Chamber Chairman, said the ECRL is not absolutely new idea it was planned way back in 1980s and revisited in 1999.
He said being part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the ECRL would provide greater opportunity for the economic growth of the country, especially for the east coast states of Peninsular Malaysia.
The rail link - scheduled for completion in 2024 - would connect Port Klang in Selangor to Pengkalan Kubor in Kelantan, cutting across Pahang and Terengganu.
The revenue from the ECRL operations is projected to be obtained through a transportation ratio of 30 per cent passengers and 70 per cent freight.
Ong also said that the ECRL would also act as a catalyst for more aggressive economic growth for Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang and help close the economic gap between the states in the east coast and west coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
"The ECRL will also open more economic opportunities to explore in multiple sectors, including tourism. The east coast region has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions. Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang will be able to attract more tourists as it will be easier and more convenient to visit these states with the ECRL."
Press-release at the Bernama official web-site