ECRL to revolutionise connectivity, economic growth for east coast
ECRL represented a significant leap forward in addressing long standing connectivity challenges in the east coast region.

SHAH ALAM – The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is set to improve connectivity and boost development in Malaysia's east coast, says Malaysian Public Transport Users Association (4PAM) president Ajit Johl.
He highlighted the transformative potential of the project, which he believed will create new job opportunities, stimulate business ventures and streamline the exchange of goods and services, paving the way for unprecedented regional development.
"Connectivity has always been a challenge due to the geographical distance of this area.
"That’s why we believe the ECRL will be a game changer, offering greater opportunities for jobs, trade and the efficient movement of goods and services," he said during a Fireside Chat interview, recently.
Ajit said ECRL represented a significant leap forward in addressing long standing connectivity challenges in the east coast region.
Drawing parallels with other technological shifts, Ajit pointed to the evolution of communication as an example adding that landlines gave way to mobile phones, which revolutionised communication.
"Mobile technology transformed how parents stayed in touch with their children abroad and how loved ones interacted," he added.
He said this shift also opened up entirely new industries, ranging from gaming to gambling and even less desirable sectors.
The core theme, he said was connectivity, which served as a driving force behind progress.
Ajit also referenced the legacy of former minister Tun S. Samy Vellu's vision for the North-South Highway.
He said when the highway was first built, fuel was cheaper than toll fees and people ridiculed the idea of paying more for tolls than for fuel.
However, Ajit pointed out that today, the highway has significantly changed the landscape.
He highlighted that people now expected to use it because the old roads were often congested, despite efforts to expand them.
He further noted the challenge of managing road congestion in Malaysia, a car-loving nation with a high vehicle production rate.
"Public transport is part of the solution to this issue, and projects like the ECRL come into play.
"We also hope that the government revives the High-Speed Rail project, which has been uncertain due to conflicting reports," he added.
Ajit said like any significant change, the full impact of the ECRL will take time to be realised.
However, he stressed that the key takeaway was that the ECRL will enhance connectivity and provide significant benefits to the region.
He believed it will be a game changer for the East Coast and beyond.
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