ECRL Project On Track Despite RM2.9mil Theft Losses

Photo: Bernama. A total of 38 cases of cable and component theft have been reported along the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) route between Terengganu and Pahang from Jan to Sept costing the project nearly RM2.9 million in losses.

Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak said tighter security measures are now in place, including 116 CCTV cameras and 67 security guards stationed at hotspots.
“So far, we have recorded incidents in Terengganu and Pahang, so it’s not confined to one location. We’ve received good cooperation from all the states involved to conduct more frequent engagements

“This is a continuous effort, and we want all parties to take this issue seriously, as it could affect the opening of ECRL operations if it persists,” he said in a Bernama report.

Despite the thefts, construction progress remains strong with the Terengganu stretch 93.55% complete and the overall project at 88.08%. 

Darwis said the ECRL is still on schedule to wrap up by Dec 2026 and begin operations in Jan 2027.