Can Malaysia strike a deal with China for its East Coast Rail Link?

Malaysia’s leader has explained why the government decided to cancel a US$20 billion rail project in January, saying it cannot afford to contribute to the 688km East Coast Rail Link that would be built and financed by China. In an interview with the South China Morning Post, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad also said Kuala Lumpur is still negotiating with Beijing about options for continuing with the project.