
Pahang is charting steady progress, with advancing infrastructure, strengthening its tourism appeal, and unlocking new economic opportunities.
- ECRL Nears Completion and Economic Impact
The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is 86% complete, with Phase 1 due by December 2026 and full operations expected in January 2028. Spanning 665 km, it will cut Gombak–Kota Bharu travel from seven hours to just four, while catalysing investment, boosting trade in Kuantan and Port Klang, and uplifting smaller towns along the corridor.
Sources: Bernama , Channel NewsAsia
- Mentakab Tourism on the Rise
Mentakab’s historic sites, street markets, and new attractions, including Malaysia’s largest “chicken-bowl” water feature, are drawing more visitors. With the upcoming ECRL station, the town is set for stronger tourism growth and fresh investments.
Source: eNanyang
- Tioman Tourisum Rebounds
Tourism in Tioman is showing a strong rebound, led by Berjaya Tioman Resort, which is enjoying an average 70% occupancy rate. About 70% of guests are international visitors from China, Europe, and Singapore.
Source: eNanyang
- Jerantut Square Sparks Local Economy
The Jerantut Square commercial hub, a RM130 million project by Jaya Depan and PKNP, is slated for completion in Q4 2026. Featuring retail outlets, offices, EV charging, and solar-powered infrastructure, it is expected to create 1,000 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs while becoming a new tourism and community hub.
Source: theSun