The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is on track for a January 2027 launch, with transport minister Anthony Loke saying that while system testing and inspections have yet to begin, the ministry views operational readiness, not just track construction, as the most critical factor before services can start, Bernama reports. “Rail systems are not just about the tracks. System integration must come first, and testing has not yet begun. As such, the transport ministry is maintaining the January next year timeline,” he said recently, adding that lessons have been learnt from recent challenges involving the KLIA aerotrain and the LRT3 Shah Alam Line. “The transport 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,” Loke said, adding that comprehensive testing and commissioning are expected to start in June. He also said in a separate Bernama report that fares will be announced several months before operations begin. They will be set based on a comprehensive land public transport agency (APAD) study and are subject to approval by the relevant authorities. “Currently, the ministry is focusing on construction and installation works to ensure the project is completed on schedule. The testing and commissioning phases are essential and must be conducted prior to fare setting,” Loke said, adding that the 665-km line’s construction was 90.81% complete as of December. The achievement was supported by the completion of excavation work for all 14 tunnels, the laying of more than 500 km of track, and the installation of over 12,000 overhead catenary system poles. Regarding the Kota Bharu ECRL station, Loke said construction was 82.06% done as of December, ahead of full completion expected by Q2 2026. Built on a 20.94-hectare site, the station’s design reflects Kelantan’s heritage and boasts 500 parking spaces, passenger drop-off and pick-up points, covered walkways and staff quarters. Construction of the 43-km ECRL line in Kelantan was 96.67% done as of December, covering the Kota Bharu station in Tunjong (passengers only) and the Pasir Puteh station in Cherang Tuli (passengers and goods). Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Atome, Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.