In an effort to transform travel between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, the Electric Train Service (ETS) between Gemas and Johor Bahru is almost completed and is scheduled to open in August.
The RM9.5 billion project will cut the existing seven-hour diesel train trip time between KL and JB to just 4.5 hours.
The new electrified double-track train project will stop at Segamat, Kluang, Kulai, and JB Sentral and run at 140 km/h. The train comes with 312 seats, USB charging connections, WiFi, and plenty of room for guests’ bags.
The west coast rail electrification programme, which started in 2011 under former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, is now complete.
Even though there have been several setbacks since building started in 2017, such as problems with testing the electrical supply and difficulties acquiring property, officials are optimistic about the revised completion date.
The 192km expansion, which is being built by YTL Construction and joint venture partner SIPP Rail, is seen as a strategic priority by the Johor state government and the Ministry of Transport.
Priority status is still being given to this project and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which is expected to open by January 2027, according to Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
When the service is up and running, it will transport about 3,000 people every day between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur.
