The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is facing a security issue in Selangor after cables along the railway alignment were reportedly stolen or deliberately cut for three consecutive days.
The incidents took place between September 27 and 29, prompting China Communications Construction Company (CCC) ECRL Malaysia to lodge police reports and step up security along the affected areas.
The company warned that the damage could go beyond the cost of replacing equipment, as ECRL is currently in a crucial testing and commissioning phase ahead of its planned opening in December 2026.
ECRL trains currently undergoing high-speed testing
CCC ECRL Malaysia said trains are currently undergoing day-and-night trial runs at speeds of up to 160km/h as part of preparations for the 2026 opening target.
The railway alignment is also a restricted testing area and is not open to the public. As the railway systems, equipment and cables are either fully energised or undergoing live testing, anyone who enters the area without authorisation could face a serious risk of electric shock or even death.
The company also warned that stolen or damaged cables could cause further delays. Any affected equipment would first have to be inspected, repaired or replaced before testing could resume, while certain sections may need to undergo trial runs again. If such incidents continue, the company said they could affect the overall project timeline and potentially delay ECRL’s planned operations by the end of 2026.
CCC ECRL Malaysia has since reported the incidents to police and is assisting with investigations. Security measures along the railway alignment have also been strengthened, while local authorities are increasing patrols and monitoring in affected areas.
The company urged the public not to enter restricted ECRL areas or touch, cut or interfere with any railway equipment. Anyone who spots suspicious individuals or activities near the railway alignment is advised to contact the police or the nearest CCC ECRL office immediately.
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