ECRL to Boost East Coast Growth, Strengthen Malaysia-China Ties

The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027 in turn, this could unlock the development potential of Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast and attract more Chinese investment under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for Asia Pacific (BRICAP) president Tan Sri Ong Tee Keat said the project would strengthen logistical links between the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia.

Phase 1 of the ECRL, from Kota Bharu to the Gombak Integrated Terminal, is set for completion by Dec 2026, with operations to begin in January 2027.

Phase 2, linking Gombak to Port Klang, is expected to be completed by Dec 2027 and start operations in Jan 2028.

In an interview with Global Times, Ong said the new phase of high-quality BRI development would give a boost to projects like "Two Countries, Twin Parks" - especially with new economic drivers such as digital and green technologies from China.

He noted collaborations like those with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd (CATL) in renewable energy, and Huawei’s ASEAN hub in Malaysia, would support Malaysia’s sustainable development goals.

According to the World Bank, full implementation of BRI projects could increase trade by between 2.8% and 9.7% for countries along the Belt and Road corridors.

Entering its second decade, Ong said the BRI is now focusing on green transition, sustainable digital projects, and “small yet beautiful” initiatives.

The BRI, launched by China in 2013, aims to build infrastructure links connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania and Latin America.

Ong also said that emerging markets, including ASEAN, BRICS and African Union members, are becoming alternative engines of global growth - accounting for over 50% of global GDP growth.

He emphasised that these nations are helping sustain regional integration efforts amid rising protectionism.

With stronger digital economies, diversified supply chains, and closer South-South cooperation, Ong said the global order is moving toward a multipolar model.

He added that China-ASEAN economic and trade ties are expected to grow even stronger this year, with the upcoming conclusion of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) 3.0.

Source: BERNAMA