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. System integration must come first, and testing has not yet begun.
"As such, the ministry is maintaining the January next year timeline," he told a press conference after delivering his 2026 New Year Address at the ministry’s assembly on Wednesday (Jan 28).
The minister said this was based on the ministry’s extensive experience with rail systems, citing past operational challenges involving the KLIA Terminal 1 aerotrain service and the Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3), where system and software issues disrupted operations, as lessons learned.
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.
"The ministry will continue to monitor the project and ensure all technical requirements are met to guarantee the safety, reliability and smooth operation of the ECRL," he said.
According to earlier reports, the ECRL project, which spans Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor, had achieved 89% overall completion as of October 2025. - Bernama
