THE government is set to announce fare rates for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) following approval from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed during a visit to the Kota Bharu ECRL station in Tunjong on Thursday.
Loke said the fare determination process requires a prior market study to ensure pricing aligns with demand and operational realities.
However, he assured that the announcement would be made ahead of the rail system’s full launch, which is expected in January next year.
“Right now, our focus is on ensuring that construction and installation work is fully completed,” Loke said, emphasising the importance of readiness before fare rates are finalised.
Also present at the site was Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), who underlined that the project must adhere to the construction schedule and pass all regulatory testing and commissioning requirements set by APAD.
“Setting the fare would be meaningless if the transportation system itself is not operational. We hope all parties understand this, and we will provide regular updates on the progress of the ECRL construction,” Loke added.
The statement underscores the government’s approach of coordinating regulatory approval, operational readiness, and fare transparency to ensure the ECRL’s successful launch and reliable service to the public. - January 29, 2026
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