Stop politicising ECRL cost - Wee

The opposition should stop politicising the cost of the East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) project as it has not been finalised, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

He said although the estimated cost of the 600km project from Kuala Lumpur to Tumpat, Kelantan was about RM55 billion, the final cost had yet to be finalised as it would involve many different parties.

"When we talk about a memorandum of understanding (MoU), it is not a real contract or agreement per se, for example, it doesn't specifically detail out the technical specifications of the project.

"When they have finalised and agreed on the details, the framework will subsequently be translated to real contract. I hope the public will not be easily influenced by these irresponsible politicians," he told a press conference after the 8th World Chinese Economic Summit media launch, here, today.

The annual two-day event from Nov 16 will bring together over 200 policy makers, entrepreneurs, researchers and thought leaders from around the world to discuss topics related to ASEAN and China.

During the tabling of Budget 2017, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced that the ECRL project would be carried out in phases involving routes from Port Klang, ITT Gombak, Bentong, Mentakab, Kuantan, Kemaman, Kerteh, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Bharu and finally, Tumpat.

Work on the ECRL is expected to begin next year and scheduled for completion in 2022.

Wee said the project would generate rapid economic growth to the country, especially in the East Coast part of the peninsula.

"I remember last time there were criticisms made against the North-South Expressway, where people argued that it was just a waste of money, but fast forward to this day the highway has contributed massively to our economy.

"The project (ECRL) and the bilateral relations and cooperation between Malaysia and China will only benefit the two nations with endless possibilities in the coming years," he said. -- BERNAMA