Malaysian bullet train project to take off

By Yusof Sulaiman
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (eTN) – Following the authorization from the Malaysian and Singaporean governments, the company undertaking the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore bullet train project has announced it has started work on the design track lying (DTL) plans for the proposed project.

Malaysia-based YTL company, which is the country¡¯s largest construction and power group, said it has received the green light from both governments, and that the projected US$2.5 billion project, including a prototype design, will be similar to the bullet trains in Japan and Taiwan.

“The DTL plan is handled by experts who will also study details of environmental preservation and minimize relocation of people along the stretch as much as possible,” YTL said.

“YTL plans to draw on the expertise of Siemens, Europe’s largest engineering company for the project,” said a YTL executive. “It will have a sleek design, but building of structures will take time to complete to avoid going through grey areas.”

Design and planning plans for the project are expected to be submitted to the respective agencies for approval within the next four to six months. “Presently project feasibility studies are being carried out,YTL added.

YTL and its engineering partner are expected to commence work on the project by year end and the cut-off time will be end of 2009.”
It will also be building a new US$160 million high-speed rail project, the Sentul – Batu Caves link, another tourist landmark in Malaysia. Expansion work at the train station includes an integrated themed train center with retail, food and beverage outlets and office space. 

Collaborating with YTL as a major partner and developer is Express Rail Link (RRL), which runs the present Kuala Lumpur high-speed train service.

April 3, 2007   Posted in: Maldives