Singapore–Malaysia High Speed Line Finally Cancelled

• 27 February 2021
• Construction Focus
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After over seven years of planning, multiple contract signings and withdrawals, the controversial Singapore –Kuala Lumpur high-speed rail link was officially abandoned by the governments of both countries in a final statement on 01 January.

Issues over cost, Chinese involvement, timeframes, and Malaysian political concerns dogged the project since its inception. The 350km rail line was intended to cut travel time from 7 hours to just 90 minutes but came at a cost of US$27.3 billion and built time of over 10 years.

In 2018, newly-elected Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed suspended multiple Chinese-funded projects over concerns at cost and control. Work on tendering was effectively suspended with both governments agreeing to a 2-year delay.

The recent impact of COVID-19 saw Malaysia seek to cut costs again which contributed to the cancellation.

The joint cancellation comes despite Singapore already signing and publishing five tender contracts for work on its side of the line.

Photo Credit: Raillynews 

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