KAJANG: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is created for the people and country, and should not be politicised or turned into a racial or language issue, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
“I would like to emphasise that the ECRL is one of the most important projects for the nation.
“It’s a game changer for the east coast. It is for the country’s economic development and to help us reach greater heights.
“The theme is very clear, we’re pushing for connecting lines and accelerating growth,” he said after attending Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman’s 15th anniversary celebration at its Sungai Long campus here yesterday.
The RM55bil ECRL from Port Klang to Kota Baru, which is 534.58km long, is estimated to be completed in 2024.
Liow cautioned actions that could harm good bilateral ties between Malaysia and China were counter-productive.
Varsity pillars: (Standing from left to right) Utar founding president Tan Sri Dr Ng Lay Swee, MCA vice president Datuk Dr Hou Kok Chung, Dr Chuah, Dr Ling, Liow, Dr Ting, Chong and Utar Board of Trustees chairman Tan Sri Dr Sak Cheng Lum cutting Utar’s anniversary cake.
“We must explain to the people that the ECRL is for them and the nation. They should not be misled by those out to create a controversy,” he said.
The ECRL was launched in Kuantan on Wednesday.
Certain groups had criticised the rail link launch, claiming that it was “too Chinese”.
Liow described the launch as a successful event, adding that the project was set to bring many benefits to Malaysians.
“We have received a lot of support for the project. We are looking forward to its completion,” he added.
