Kuala lumpur: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is projected to generate between RM80 and RM90 billion in cumulative value-added contribution to Malaysia's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2047. Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah highlighted that this significant contribution is expected to be driven by the development of 21 Economic Accelerator Projects (EAPs) along the ECRL corridor.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Shahar emphasized that several ECRL stations have been identified as potential new logistic hubs. Specifically, Pasir Puteh in Kelantan with 213 acres, Kemaman in Terengganu with 68 acres, and Temerloh in Pahang with 50 acres are designated for transformation into logistic hubs. Mohd Shahar remarked that the ECRL is not merely a transportation infrastructure but also a catalyst for sustainable economy and investment development, in addition to creating quality job opportunities.
The government is committed to ensuring that the ECRL project bolsters the country's transportation network while acting as a catalyst for local economic development, aligning with the MADANI Economy framework. Additionally, the first phase of the Perodua logistics hub in Paya Besar, Kuantan, is expected to be completed by 2029, strengthening local industries and creating employment opportunities along the ECRL corridor.
Mohd Shahar, who also represents Paya Besar in Parliament, asserted that the ECRL should be seen as a complementary infrastructure that enhances Malaysia's overall logistics ecosystem rather than replacing existing international shipping routes. He further explained that the project aims to bridge the gap between the East Coast and West Coast by strengthening the logistics network.
As outlined under the 13th Malaysia Plan, initiatives such as these are guided by the Malaysia Development Composite Index and MyRMK system to ensure accurate and effective allocation of resources and projects to areas in need. The RM50.27 billion national infrastructure project is scheduled for completion in December 2026, with operations expected to commence in January 2027. The 665-kilometre ECRL project will feature 11 six-car electric multiple unit (EMU) train sets for passenger services and 12 electric locomotives (E-Loco) for cargo purposes.