KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 17): Construction of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has achieved progress of 50.29% as of August 2023, according to deputy transport minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, adding that the year 2023 involves major structural works such as beam launching, construction of stations and track laying.

"Currently, construction works such as bridge construction using beam launcher machinery, dredging works, structural works and tunnel construction are actively being carried out along the ECRL line," Hasbi told Parliament in response to a question by Kuantan MP Wan Razali Wan Nor.

Hasbi revealed that tunnel boring works for the first Genting Tunnel have reached 3.10km while the second Genting Tunnel has reached 4.29km, out of a total distance of 16.39km.

Besides that, Hasbi also noted that the main contractor of ECRL, China Communications Construction Sdn Bhd, has appointed various local companies to support the construction of the project amounting to 2,785 companies comprising subcontractors, consultants, suppliers and service providers.

Cost of construction for the ECRL project from Kota Bharu, Kelantan to Port Klang, Selangor with a line of 665km passing through 20 stations (passenger and cargo) across four states, namely Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor, still remains at a total of RM50.27 billion.

"Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd continues to pay close attention to any changes that may result in increased costs for the entire ECRL project," Hasbi added.

For more Parliament stories, click here.