AN MCA Youth leader has called for stronger railway security, affordable fares and improved passenger accessibility ahead of the planned launch of East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) passenger services in December this year.
Its deputy chairman Mike Chong Yew Chuan said the 523km rail link between Gombak and Kota Bharu would improve connectivity between the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia, reduce travel time and offer an alternative to long-distance road journeys.
“The planned launch of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) passenger service between Kota Bharu and Gombak on 12 December 2026 is a game changer as this landmark project will bring the East and West Coasts closer, shorten travel time and provide Malaysians with a convenient alternative to long-distance road travel,” he said.
Economy-class fares for the Gombak-Kota Bharu journey start at RM125 one way for the transit service and RM147 for the express service.
The government-approved dynamic pricing system means fares can vary according to departure time, demand and seat availability. Commercial passenger operations are targeted to begin on Dec 12, subject to the necessary safety approvals.
Chong said affordability and transparent pricing would be important to ensure the service remained accessible to the public, particularly during peak travel periods.
“Beyond passenger convenience, the ECRL can stimulate domestic and international tourism, create employment, support local businesses and attract investment to East Coast communities,” he stressed.
He added that the railway’s freight connections could improve goods movement, strengthen supply chains and expand market access for manufacturers and agricultural producers.
However, Chong said the project’s long-term success would depend on safe and reliable railway infrastructure.
His concerns come amid persistent cable theft affecting Malaysia’s rail network. In August, the Transport Ministry told the Dewan Negara that railway cable theft had caused estimated losses of RM50.05 mil across KTMB, Prasarana and ECRL infrastructure since 2024.
As of June 8, 2026, the ECRL project alone had recorded 71 cable-theft cases, with estimated losses of RM4.06 mil.
“Frequent reports of cable theft disrupting MRT and LRT operations raise legitimate concerns about railway infrastructure security,” Chong added.
He called on the Transport Ministry and rail operators to strengthen surveillance at vulnerable locations, install closed-circuit television cameras and tamper-detection alarms, increase targeted patrols and coordinate closely with the police.
He also urged authorities to tighten monitoring of scrap-metal dealers and step up enforcement against the handling of stolen cables.
Passenger safety and accessibility should receive equal attention, Chong said, highlighting the need for well-lit stations, effective emergency procedures, safe platforms, clear signage, disability-friendly facilities and adequate luggage arrangements.
“Assistance for elderly passengers and families with young children would also make rail travel more comfortable and inclusive,” he said.
Chong also called for reliable service frequency, clear passenger information, accessible stations and efficient feeder transport linking ECRL stations with surrounding communities.
Transparent reporting of service performance, he said, would help strengthen public confidence.
“The ECRL represents an important step towards better national connectivity. Its long-term success will depend on whether it delivers affordable, dependable transport while generating tangible economic benefits for Malaysians, particularly communities along its route,” he remarked. ‒ Oct 21, 2026
Main image: Bernama
