KUALA LUMPUR: Reviving the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) presents Malaysia with a transformative opportunity to unlock the country's full economic potential and reinforce its leadership in Southeast Asia, according to transportation think tank My Mobility Vision.
Its chief strategy officer Rahman Hussin said the think tank lauded the government's focus on addressing immediate infrastructure needs but stressed that the HSR project should be part of these priorities.
"The HSR is not just a test of Malaysia's ambition but a cornerstone of the nation's future.
"Without it, we risk watching other nations pull ahead while we remain stagnant," he told Bernama.
Rahman highlighted the compelling economic benefits of the HSR.
He said the HSR's estimated RM70 billion cost could generate RM250 billion in gross domestic product growth for Malaysia and Singapore, creating over 111,000 new jobs by 2060 and delivering up to RM19 trillion in broader economic impacts.
"These impacts include the creation of new business hubs along the rail corridor and boosting trade and tourism.
"Such outcomes cannot be achieved through fare collection alone, but they underscore why this project is critical to Malaysia's broader economic roadmap," he opined.
Rahman called for immediate action to revive the HSR, emphasising the need for a comprehensive plan that prioritises connectivity, economic impact, and long-term growth.
"The HSR is not just about today's challenges; it is about tomorrow's opportunities.
"Let us not settle for incremental progress when transformative change is within our grasp," he added.