“Over 1,600m of cables stolen from the ECRL project in Temerloh-Bentong, raising concerns over delays, costs, and rail infrastructure security.”
Kuala Lumpur, 12th September 2025, 01.22pm – The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has been hit by a major setback after more than 1,600 metres of connector cables were stolen along the Temerloh-Bentong stretch in Pahang, raising concerns about project delays and rising costs.
China Communications Construction (ECRL) Sdn Bhd (CCCECRL), the project’s main contractor, confirmed that 1,080m of cables were stolen along the Temerloh-Lanchang alignment, while another 599m went missing on the Lanchang-Bentong section over the past two weeks.
“CCCECRL strongly condemns the theft of connector cables along the ECRL alignment from Temerloh to Bentong. This incident has caused severe damage to rail infrastructure and may disrupt the completion schedule of this national project,” the company said in a statement today.
The contractor revealed that since June, a series of thefts involving high-value components — including cables and transformers — have been reported, highlighting a worrying trend affecting the RM50.27 billion national project.
The theft not only escalates repair and replacement costs but also risks delaying construction timelines, as the replacement parts are custom-made and require several months to procure.
“The ECRL plays a critical role in delivering long-term social and economic benefits to the East Coast Region and the nation. Any disruption could impact connectivity and development plans,” CCCECRL said.
A police report has been lodged at the Lanchang police station, and the company is cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation.
The public has been urged not to buy any electrical cables or rail components suspected to be from the project and to report suspicious activities to the police or the nearest CCCECRL office.
The ECRL, spanning 665km from Kota Bharu to Port Klang, is one of Malaysia’s most significant infrastructure projects, designed to boost regional development and strengthen national logistics.
