BENTONG: Malaysia’s mega project, the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), has achieved another milestone with the record-breaking breakthrough of the 16.39km Genting Tunnel.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that the completion of the Genting Tunnel would be expected to be the longest railway tunnel in South-East Asia.
“It will certainly complement international trade, making it more attractive for businesses by boosting export-oriented industries as its ‘last-mile’ connectivity, linking Kuantan Port and Port Klang, will bring both coasts closer together and ease the transfer of goods along the ECRL network,” he said during the launching ceremony here on Saturday (July 12).
He added that the achievement also marked the collaboration between Malaysia and China in engineering cooperation.
Loke also said that it showcases the strong collaboration among ECRL personnel at all levels in carrying out tunnel excavation works at 41 tunnels along the ECRL alignment.
“The ECRL is also touted as a ‘game changer’ for the movement of passengers and freight in Peninsular Malaysia, as this rail infrastructure will link state capitals, major urban centres, industrial hubs, seaports, airports, and tourism zones while interchanging with existing railway lines along the ECRL corridor,” he added.
The Genting Tunnel was also named in the Malaysia’s Books of Record for two achievements, namely as the longest railway tunnel and highest overburden railway.
This achievement, said Loke, reflected the technical and engineering capabilities of the country’s railway system.
“With the progress reaching 84.59% as of June, the Transport Ministry is confident that the Malaysian Rail Link is on the right track and operational by January 2027,” he said.
