Construction of ECRL Bentong station revived – a booster shot for East Coast economy

The re-commencement of construction for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Genting Tunnel in Bentong, Pahang is most welcome as it will revitalise the economy along the East Coast region in the post-Covid-19 era.

The opening of the ECRL Bentong Station will aid in reducing traffic congestion and save travel time to and fro the East and West Coasts of Malaysia. Simultaneously, economic growth will be boosted while more job prospects will be created, thereby helping to retain talents and avoiding the perennial problem of brain drain.

This move is in line with MCA’s consistent position of supporting the ECRL Bentong Station which significantly changes the economic landscape of the East Coast without damaging the environment. I believe that once the ECRL is completed and operations commence in 2026 as scheduled, these will effectively shorten the distance between the East and West Coasts. The simplified logistics and people flow will contribute positive impacts to the development of various social and economic sectors including commerce, local industries and cultural tourism.

According to polls, as many as 98% of respondents welcome this project while residents of the East Coast are also prepared. The ECRL will generate unlimited financial opportunities, especially in reactivating real estate and business activities in the surrounding areas.

Following the agreement by the Pakatan Selangor state government to adopt the Northern Alignment as proposed by BN, and with the construction of the Bentong Station – these are undoubtedly positive news and a win-win situation for the masses as this project was planned in consideration of the rakyat’s wellbeing. It should not be politicised as a tool for politicking or for politicians to score political mileage.

The ECRL project is based on facts and figures. Professional procedures have been undertaken taking into account the best interests of the nation and citizens. Presently, the most important thing is to be able to expedite the economic recovery of the East Coast and even the entire nation, whilst co-existing with the pandemic.


Wong Siew Mun
MCA Spokesperson

-MCA Online-