Maxis appointed preferred telecom and infrastructure partner for ECRL in ten-year deal

• Connectivity rollout to span entire 665-km rail alignment
• Entered into an agreement with U Mobile to jointly develop mobile infrastructure

Maxis Berhad has been appointed by Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) as the single preferred infrastructure provider and telecommunications partner for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project. The ten-year strategic partnership positions Maxis to support one of Malaysia’s major national infrastructure projects.

The appointment was formalised at the KotaSAS ECRL station in Kuantan, coinciding with the arrival ceremony of the ECRL’s Golden Electric Multiple Unit train and electric locomotive. The event was officiated by the Minister of Transport, Loke Siew Fook, and the Minister of Communications, Fahmi Fadzil.

Under the agreement, Maxis will deliver a full-suite connectivity ecosystem across the 665-kilometre rail alignment, including:

• Mobile connectivity: Ensuring seamless mobile coverage for passengers, including within tunnels and at all stations.
• Fibre infrastructure: Managing operations, maintenance, and the commercialisation of MRL’s telecommunications assets and fibre capacity.
• Passenger experience: Providing high-speed onboard Wi-Fi and broadband solutions for retailers at ECRL stations.
• Operational solutions: Implementing enterprise push-to-talk services to enhance communication and safety for railway personnel.

To ensure universal connectivity, Maxis has entered into an agreement with U Mobile Sdn Bhd to jointly develop new mobile infrastructure. This collaboration ensures the ECRL operates as a shared network, allowing users from all mobile network operators to enjoy uninterrupted service. As lead partner, Maxis will coordinate with other MNOs to maintain quality and coverage standards along the entire line.

“Maxis is committed to supporting the ECRL project by delivering fast, reliable, and secure connectivity, benefiting its operations, passengers, and ecosystem of retailers,” said Goh Seow Eng, CEO of Maxis. “This initiative aligns with the national digital agenda, contributing to the development of the East Coast Economic Region for the benefit of the rakyat.”

According to Maxis, the partnership marks a key milestone in Malaysia’s move towards a digitally integrated transport network. By leveraging its converged network, Maxis aims to position the ECRL not just as a transport link, but as a digital corridor supporting communities, businesses, and industries across the East Coast.