Kuantan Port, Northport, Malaysia Rail Link Sign MoU For ECRL Land Bridge

Photo:Bernama.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed by Kuantan Port Consortium Sdn Bhd, North port (M) Bhd, and Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) to formalize cooperative efforts to ensure the realization of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) land bridge connecting Kuantan Port to Port Klang.

This will improve the two ports' connectivity, smooth integration, effectiveness, and efficient cargo transfer. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kuantan Port chairman Lee Chun Fai, Northport CEO Datuk Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, and MRL CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak was witnessed by Transport Minister Anthony Loke. The collaboration includes the creation of a strategic plan for establishing a seamlessly integrated land bridge that connects rail and port operations, allowing for efficient cargo movement between the two ports while leveraging the ECRL and reducing transit time. It will also capitalise on trade opportunities created by the Belt and Road Initiative and the Halal Silk Route to strengthen trade and investment ties throughout Asia.

Photo: NST.

According to Lee, the smooth integration of Kuantan Port and Port Klang via the ECRL in this Memorandum of Understanding signifies a revolutionary step in improving Malaysia's trade and logistics infrastructure.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to driving economic growth in the East Coast Economic Region, attracting further investments, and strengthening the connectivity between the East and West Coasts, and their hinterlands,” he said in a statement
The 665-kilometer ECRL project, overseen and carried out by MRL, spans Peninsular Malaysia's East and West Coasts and connects Kota Bharu in Kelantan to Port Klang in Selangor.

By integrating with current railway lines, this project seeks to connect state capitals, significant urban areas, industrial centers, ports, airports, and tourist destinations.

The project is intended to improve transportation connectivity, support economic development, and encourage trade and tourism throughout the East Coast region. It is scheduled for complete completion in December 2027. The ECRL, primarily a cargo route, emphasizes industrial parks, logistics hubs, and transit-oriented developments while optimizing rail use with 70% capacity for freight and 30% for passengers.