Govt Approves Over RM250m for ECRL Expansion Plans and New Kota Bharu Bus Terminal

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 4 — The Madani government has approved more than RM250 million to strengthen the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) development in Kelantan, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF). This includes building a new bus terminal at the Kota Bharu ECRL Station and preliminary works for a proposed extension to Rantau Panjang, said the ministry in a statement. Of the total, RM30 million has been allocated for the new bus terminal, while more than RM200 million will fund preliminary works for the proposed ECRL extension from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang. “The preliminary works include initial design, land surveys and investigations, an environmental impact assessment (EIA), preparation of the Railway Scheme and site preparation works to facilitate the project’s implementation in the next phase,” it said. The investment aims to enhance transport infrastructure and create opportunities for competitive economic development in Kelantan. The development is expected to spur business activities, strengthen the logistics sector, attract investment and create job opportunities for the local population, said MOF. The ministry emphasised that national development must be inclusive and balanced to ensure that the benefits of progress reach people throughout the country, including in Kelantan, rather than being concentrated solely in major cities.