Track laying has been completed along the entire 519-kilometer Phase 1 (Kota Bharu to Gombak) of the East Coast Rail Link project, built by CCCC.

Datuk Seri Darwis, CEO of Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd, attended the ceremony and said the completion of track laying marks a major milestone in the project's construction, highlighting the project team's professional capability and safety management standards. Datuk Seri Darwis noted that finishing the track work has laid a solid foundation for subsequent stages, including system integration, testing, commissioning and operational preparation. He added that all parties would need to strengthen coordination to ensure delivery on schedule.

The East Coast Rail Link is the largest economic and trade cooperation project between China and Malaysia. Since its launch, it has drawn sustained attention from leaders and the public in both countries. Once completed, the railway will connect major towns along Malaysia's east coast with economic centers on the west coast, forming a key east-west rail transport corridor across the Malay Peninsula.

Track laying began on December 11, 2023. Phase 1 of the project is scheduled for completion and delivery in 2026.