Trans-Borneo Railway feasibility study advised to align with Sarawak, Sabah economic plans

Loke (centre) being briefed on the interim feasibility report of the Trans-Borneo Railway on March 3, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, March 4: The consulting team conducting the feasibility study for the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway has been advised to align the railway proposals with the economic plans of both the Sarawak and Sabah governments to ensure the routes can act as catalysts for regional development.

Minister of Transport Anthony Loke said the final feasibility report is expected to be completed by the middle of this year, following additional engagement sessions with stakeholders in Sarawak and Sabah.

“As the Minister of Transport under the Madani framework, I am committed to balanced development across the Malaysian Federation.

“While the Trans-Borneo Railway will take decades to materialise if implemented, it is vital that its foundation in the form of a long-term plan is prepared now,” he said in a post shared on its social media on Tuesday (March 3).

The high-speed rail network is envisioned to link Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and Kalimantan, Indonesia, and the feasibility study will include a comprehensive comparative analysis covering technical, commercial, socio-economic, operational, governance, and social impact considerations.

Key deliverables from the study will feature recommendations for a strategic plan, implementation schedule, action plan, and timeline, all aimed at securing buy-in from key stakeholders. Previously, it was reported that RM7 million had been allocated to fund the entire feasibility study.

During the last Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting in November 2025, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said that the study is also examining the possibility of integrating the railway with the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS).

This integration is expected to improve accessibility within Greater Kuching and Kota Sentosa while strengthening overall regional connectivity.

The final feasibility report will provide a roadmap for the Trans-Borneo Railway project, including a strategic approach to implementation and long-term development of the rail network across Borneo. — DayakDaily