‘New ECRL fares are acceptable, say passengers

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Malaysia’s East Coast Rail Link has introduced fares of RM95 for transit and RM110 for express service between Gombak and Kuala Terengganu, attracting generally positive responses from passengers who appreciate the reduced travel time and improved comfort. While the train is viewed as a convenient alternative to buses and cars, concerns about overall affordability, especially for families and group travel, remain key considerations for potential users.

Passengers have generally found the newly announced fares for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) to be reasonable, citing factors such as reduced travel time, enhanced comfort, and convenience, especially during peak travel periods like festive seasons.

The ECRL offers two fare options from Gombak to Kuala Terengganu: RM95 for the transit service and RM110 for the express service. Najmi Syah, a 30-year-old private sector employee from Terengganu currently based in Kuala Lumpur, described these prices as acceptable considering the time saved compared to other modes of transport. Having previously traveled frequently by bus and plane between the Klang Valley and his hometown, Najmi welcomed the train as an alternative, noting that despite the fares being slightly higher than bus tickets, the comfort and scenic views along the route add value to the journey.

“The faster I can reach my hometown, the longer I can be with my family,” Najmi said, expressing his willingness to pay the additional RM15 for the express service. He also pointed out that taking the train during busy times could help avoid traffic congestion and reduce risks associated with long-distance night driving, including driver fatigue.

Similarly, Siti Nur Aisyah, a 27-year-old teacher from Kuala Lumpur who frequently travels to Kelantan to visit her parents, viewed the fares as reasonable if the train could deliver on the promise of shorter journey times and greater comfort. While acknowledging the express fare is higher, she considered the extra cost justifiable for a faster trip home and expressed hope that the fares would remain affordable to encourage wider use, thereby offering an alternative to buses and private cars.

From the perspective of family travelers, however, considerations about overall affordability remain critical. Lim Wei Jian, a 42-year-old sales executive from Selangor, noted that while the ECRL might be convenient for family trips to the east coast, the total ticket cost for multiple passengers could become a concern. Lim also highlighted that when traveling by car, expenses such as petrol and tolls need to be factored into the overall cost comparison.

As Malaysia’s East Coast Rail Link begins service, early passenger feedback suggests that many see value in the convenience and time savings the train offers, though affordability and cost-effectiveness for group travel remain important factors for users weighing their transportation options.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.