AUTHORITIES have warned prospective East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) passengers to watch for fake ticket offers as sales approach, particularly on social media where scammers may exploit demand ahead of the December school holidays.
Pahang Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Sim Chon Siang said the public should be wary of unusually cheap fares and offers promising extra benefits.
“We understand that many people are eager to ride the train, but they should not be deceived by individuals seeking to take advantage of them.
“Some parties may offer discounted tickets to lure buyers. Passengers should therefore remain vigilant,” he told the NST today.
He advised passengers to buy tickets only through official ECRL sales channels once bookings open.
Sim also cautioned against online offers claiming to provide bulk-purchase discounts, free meals onboard or guaranteed seats in return for early purchases.
Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd is expected to open ticket sales through the project’s official website next month, alongside the launch of a mobile application.
The ECRL is scheduled to begin operations on Dec 12, connecting Kota Bharu to the Gombak Integrated Transport Terminal through Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor.
The announced economy-class fare between Gombak and Kota Bharu starts at RM125. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said last week that economy-class passengers would receive a 30% discount for one month from the first day of operations.
Pahang has seven ECRL stations, located in Temerloh, Bentong, Maran, Paya Besar, Kota SAS, Bandar Pelabuhan Kuantan and Cherating.