KUALA LUMPUR (July 26): Global engineering firm CH2M Hill has been appointed as the technical adviser for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) project by MyHSR Corp Sdn Bhd.

The move by MyHSR to award its technical advisory services tender to CH2M follows the July 19 signing of the memorandum of understanding on the HSR project by both the Malaysian and Singaporean governments

"CH2M, with its sub-consultant Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC), will support MyHSR to develop the project, including working on the planning and design of the Malaysian section of the project, and assisting with the project management aspects of the project," read a joint statement from MyHSR and CH2M today.

MyHSR chief executive officer Mohd Nur Ismal Mohamed Kamal said: "We have a challenging task ahead and with this appointment, we would be better equipped."

"We expect CH2M to bring its global expertise and its experience working on high speed rail projects for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore HSR project," he added.

CH2M programme director Mark Loader said the firm understands the challenges that lie ahead for the project.

"CH2M is an established member of the Malaysian engineering community, with a continued presence in Kuala Lumpur since the 1960s.

"We understand the challenges associated with delivering this nationally significant programme based on our depth of experience with High Speed 1 and 2 in the UK.

"Our team will bring a partnership approach to MyHSR, combining international rail expertise with our local understanding to provide the leadership and capabilities to ensure the project is delivered successfully," said Loader.

According to CH2M's website, the company has undertaken transit and rail projects around the world such as the Crossrail in the UK and the Haramain HSR in Saudi Arabia.

The Kuala Lumpur-Singapore HSR is targeted to commence operations by 2026.