Due to substantial government investments in major projects such as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), and East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Malaysia's railway infrastructure sector has experienced extraordinary growth in recent decades. However, despite these advancements, there are still ongoing delays, cost overruns, and poor performance, especially in public railway projects. This study investigates the reasons for railway delays in Malaysia and worldwide. Additionally, it demonstrates the importance of project planning, particularly in terms of scope, schedule, and cost planning. A review of the literature on significant railway projects was conducted to identify the causes of the reported delays. All identified causes were then analysed based on project management factors to determine the issues or sources of delays and cost overruns in railway projects.