KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is finalising the key parameters for the proposed implementation of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project on a privately-led basis to ensure the efficient delivery of this major infrastructure project.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said MyHSR Corporation Sdn Bhd (MyHSR Corp) has evaluated seven concept proposals received from both local and international firms and consortia through the Request for Information (RFI) process.
“At present, the ministry, together with the relevant ministries and agencies, is finalising the key parameters for the proposed implementation of the HSR project on a private-led basis.
“These parameters will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
“Further details regarding the shortlisted consortiums, the financing methods, and the project model study will be reviewed in the next phase, which will involve the Request for Proposal (RFP) process,” he said in a parliamentary written reply on Monday (Feb 17).
Loke said this in response to Muhammad Islahuddin Abas (PN-Mersing), who enquired about the latest update on the project following the decision by Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) to withdraw from the consortium led by Berjaya Rail Sdn Bhd (Berjaya).
On Dec 19, MRCB announced that it had issued a notice of termination to Berjaya, ending their teaming agreement.
In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, MRCB said the agreement, signed on Dec 15, 2023, was intended for the submission of a non-binding conceptual proposal to MyHSR for the KL-SG HSR project.
Berjaya, meanwhile, said the consortium which it leads, will include Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd, IJM Corporation Bhd and its technical partners such as Deutsche Bahn, Hitachi Rail and Hyundai Rotem, will be further strengthened to better align with the evolving needs of the project and to meet the government’s expectations.
Its founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan has also urged local companies to be part of a consortium for the project.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd