ECRL project has reached 85% progress, says chief secretary to govt

• Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar: “I am confident that this ECRL project will become a landmark of national pride and a catalyst for economic revitalisation along its alignment and surrounding areas, directly benefiting the people and the nation.”

KUALA LUMPUR (July 5): Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) has been instructed to closely monitor the implementation of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project, which has now reached 85% progress.

This was conveyed by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar during the 32nd MRL board of directors meeting, held in conjunction with its retreat, which began on Friday in Melaka.

He said MRL is also tasked with ensuring that no disruptions, such as rail encroachments by irresponsible parties, occur, as these could affect the project’s schedule and delay the commencement of operations, which is targeted for early 2027.

“I am confident that this ECRL project will become a landmark of national pride and a catalyst for economic revitalisation along its alignment and surrounding areas, directly benefiting the people and the nation.

“This is in line with the ‘Kesejahteraan’ (prosperity) element in the Madani principle, which can only be realised through a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach via federal-state-private-sector synergy,” he said in a Facebook post on Saturday.

In another post, Shamsul Azri said the MRL retreat is important to focus on the direction and operational targets of the ECRL train journey.

“Many things are being planned by the MRL in collaboration with various parties to ensure an efficient rail operating ecosystem, as well as offering job opportunities to local children.

“In addition, this project will open up opportunities for business activities, spur economic growth and provide better connectivity between the West Coast and East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.

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