Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) is set to significantly enhance rail connectivity across Peninsular Malaysia with the introduction of additional Electric Train Service (ETS) routes starting 1st January 2026. The move aims to improve capacity, comfort, and seamless travel between the country’s key economic regions, particularly along the northern, southern, and east coast corridors.
In a statement, KTMB announced that four additional ETS services will be added to the KL Sentral-JB Sentral-KL Sentral route, doubling the total number of daily service on the southern sector from 4 to 8. The expansion is expected to provide greater flexibility and convenience for commuter and long-distance travellers heading to and from Johor Bahru.
The rail operator also confirmed that the existing Padang Besar-Segamat-Padang Besar service will be extended to JB Sentral, creating a direct Padang Besar-Johor Bahru ETS route. This development completes the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project, establishing a continuous electrified rail network linking northern Malaysia with the southernmost tip of the peninsula.
“This completes the objective of the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project in establishing a continuous rail network linking the northern and southern economic regions”, KTMB said.
Beyond the southern corridor, KTMB will also introduce two additional services on the Shuttle Timuran (Gemas-Kuala Lipis) route, bringing the total to six daily services. The increased frequency will benefit East Coast passengers, particularly those travelling to Johor Bahru, as they will be able to experience ETS3 services via transit at Gemas station.
KTMB added that ticket sales for the new services will open at noon tomorrow, covering a six-month travel period until May. The early release is intended to meet strong passenger demand, especially during peak travel periods and festive seasons such as Thaipusam, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Tickets will be available through the KITS Style mobile application, KTMB’s official website and KTMB kiosk machines.
Commenting on the expansion, KTMB chief technical officer and acting group chief executive officer Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin said the completion of the electrified rail line from Padang Besar to Johor Bahru marks a major milestone for the national rail system. With the expanded ETS services, KTMB aims to strengthen intercity rail travel as a reliable alternative to road transport, supporting economic growth, tourism and greener mobility across the country.
Sources: MalayMail
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