ECRL fares are now official. Through a Cabinet decision on 16 October 2026, the Government approved the proposed passenger fares for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), with Economy class Transit tickets from Gombak to Kota Bharu starting from as low as RM125 one way.
Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) welcomed the decision, saying it reflects the Government’s commitment to making the country’s transport infrastructure accessible to people from all walks of life. The approved structure balances affordability, the value of the service and the long-term sustainability of ECRL operations.
The announcement follows MRL’s earlier confirmation that ECRL commercial operations are targeting mid-December 2026.
ECRL Fares by Route: Transit vs Express
For the 523-kilometre journey from Gombak to Kota Bharu, Economy class Transit fares start from RM125 one way, while Express fares start from RM147.
Gombak to Kuala Terengganu (378 km) starts from RM95 on Transit and RM110 on Express. The 209-kilometre trip from Gombak to KotaSAS starts from RM60 on Transit and RM68 on Express. The same starting fares apply to journeys in the opposite direction.
Starting Economy class ECRL fares for Transit and Express. Image: Malaysia Rail Link
The Transit service stops at every scheduled station, while the Express service serves four main stations only: Gombak, KotaSAS, Kuala Terengganu and Kota Bharu.
How Dynamic Pricing Will Shape ECRL Fares
ECRL fares will follow the dynamic fare mechanism agreed by the Cabinet on 28 June 2024, with the implementation formula approved on 16 October 2026. Ticket prices may vary according to travel time, demand and seat availability.
For passengers, this means more flexibility to plan journeys around their needs and budgets, while helping keep ECRL services competitive and sustainable.
Gombak to Kota Bharu in About Four Hours
The Express service from Gombak to Kota Bharu is scheduled to take about four hours, while the Transit service will take up to five hours.
From Gombak to Kuala Terengganu, the Express journey takes 2 hours 54 minutes, compared with 3 hours 51 minutes on Transit. Gombak to KotaSAS takes 1 hour 27 minutes on Express and 2 hours 5 minutes on Transit.
The 665-kilometre ECRL alignment across four states. Image: Malaysia Rail Link
The shorter journey times will benefit Malaysians who travel regularly between the East Coast and the Klang Valley for family, work, education and business, with an option less affected by highway congestion during festive periods and school holidays.
Up to 50% Off ECRL Fares for Eligible Groups
In line with its inclusive, rakyat-friendly approach, the Cabinet approved a 50% discount for children aged two to 12, Malaysian citizens aged 60 and above, Persons with Disabilities (OKU) cardholders and government pensioners. Students aged 13 to 24 will receive a 40% discount.
Up to 50% off ECRL fares for eligible groups. Image: Malaysia Rail Link
Ticket Sales Begin in Mid-November 2026
Official ECRL ticket sales are scheduled to begin in mid-November 2026. Passenger operations on the Gombak–Kota Bharu route are targeted to start in mid-December 2026, subject to the completion of safety requirements and the necessary approvals.
At the initial stage, 10 Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train sets will run at speeds of up to 160 km/h, connecting Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor. There will be 12 daily trips from Monday to Thursday, rising to 16 from Friday to Sunday, with about 2.2 million seats planned throughout 2027.
Services will be operated by ECRL Operation Sdn Bhd (EOSB), a 50:50 joint venture between MRL and China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC). MRL remains the owner of the ECRL project and its assets.
What Passengers Can Expect on Board
ECRL trains offer Economy, Premium Economy and Business class. Economy and Premium Economy configurations carry up to 425 passengers, while sets that include Business class accommodate 409.
Facilities include luggage racks, a food and beverage counter, a prayer room and dedicated seating for OKU passengers. Trains will also offer 4G/5G connectivity and Wi-Fi along the alignment.
ECRL onboard facilities. Image: Malaysia Rail Link
More Than a Rail Project
Beyond faster travel, the ECRL is expected to create new opportunities in tourism, trade, employment and education, while supporting more balanced regional development along its alignment.
“The ECRL is more than a rail transport project. It is a strategic national investment whose benefits must be measured beyond fare revenue and passenger numbers,” said MRL Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Darwis Abdul Razak.
Information on ECRL fares, travel schedules and ticket sales is available on the official ECRL website.
