A lot of issues have been surrounding the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) since the former BN government decided to move forward with the project. While the objective is true and fair, the project has been bogged down by funding issues and possibility of leakages.

However, the project's benefits to the people and the country's economy, especially to the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, is undeniable. We're talking about thousands of jobs to be created, new business opportunities, safer and faster travels, as well as saving the environment.

I urge Malaysians, especially the people of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang to show their support for the ECRL project. As two nations with strong, friendly ties, I urge both Malaysian and Chinese governments to work together and find ways to make changes so that cost of the project can be reduced and work on the ECRL can continue.