PUTRAJAYA: The Transport Ministry is maintaining its target to commence operations of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) in January 2027. Minister Anthony Loke said that before system testing and inspections begin, the ministry views operational readiness, not just track construction, as the most critical factor in rail projects before services can start. "Rail systems are not just about the tracks. Loke said that system integration testing is the most demanding phase of rail projects, as it ensures all components function reliably and in sync before full operations begin. According to earlier reports, the ECRL project, which spans Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor, had achieved 89% overall completion as of October 2025.

Source: The Star January 28, 2026 08:03 UTC