The works, which exclude tunnelling works, are meant for the implementation of the project from 2017 to 2026.

The project owners Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRLSB) have agreed that the main contractors China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC) will appoint the local subcontractors and suppliers.

MRLSB chairman  Mohd Zuki Ali said CCCC has also agreed to accord special attention to the appointment of small contractors from Grades G1-G3 categories that will directly benefit them, as well as the overall construction industry players in the country.

“To date, a total of 403 local contractors have passed the pre-qualification process and have already been registered in the Online Registration System. Of these, 212 companies or 52% are Bumiputera contractors.

“Since the implementation of the project from 2017 until Nov 30, 2020, a total of RM3.39 billion worth of ECRL work contracts (including permanent and temporary civil works) have been awarded to almost 2,000 local companies, comprising contractors, suppliers and consultants,” he said in a statement.

Of the total amount, RM1.69 billion is for work in Pahang, followed by Terengganu (RM1.40 billion) and Kelantan (RM0.30 billion).

The ECRL project is proceeding slightly ahead of schedule, driven mainly by construction works in Section A (Kota Bharu-Dungun) and Section B (Dungun-Mentakab).

Currently, the project’s overall completion rate stands at 19.69%.

MRLSB targets for the overall completion rate to reach 30% by year-end, he said.