Malaysia's Rail Revolution: ETS Slashes JB-KL Travel Time by Half!

A monumental leap in Malaysian public transportation has arrived as Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) officially extends its coveted Electric Train Service (ETS) to Johor Bahru Sentral. This highly anticipated expansion is set to revolutionize inter-city travel, dramatically cutting the journey time between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur by nearly half, promising a seamless and efficient experience for thousands.

Previously, a train journey between the bustling southern city of Johor Bahru and the vibrant capital of Kuala Lumpur could stretch to a grueling six to seven hours.

Now, with the launch of the new ETS service, commuters and travelers can look forward to reaching their destination in a mere 3 hours and 35 minutes. This incredible reduction in travel time is made possible by the strategic integration of the Gemas-KL Sentral ETS line with the newly completed 192km electrified double-tracking section from Gemas to JB Sentral.

This critical infrastructure project, known as the Gemas-JB Sentral Electrified Double-Tracking Project (EDTP), has been years in the making and represents a significant investment in Malaysia's rail network.

The completion of this segment unlocks the full potential of high-speed electric trains, allowing them to traverse the southern corridor with unprecedented speed and comfort, directly connecting the two major economic hubs.

Initially, two daily return services will be available, providing ample options for travelers.

Bookings for this game-changing service opened to an enthusiastic public from October 10, with the inaugural journeys commencing on October 11. Passengers can now secure their tickets, with prices set at RM59 for the JB-Gemas route, RM84 for the full JB-KL Sentral journey, and RM102 for connections all the way to Padang Besar, offering exceptional value for the speed and convenience provided.

The extension of the ETS to Johor Bahru offers a compelling alternative to driving, which can be fraught with traffic woes, or flying, which often involves additional time for check-ins and airport transfers.

Travelers will now enjoy spacious seating, air-conditioned comfort, and the ability to work or relax onboard, making the journey itself part of the enjoyable experience. Furthermore, this move supports a greener mode of transport, contributing to reduced carbon emissions compared to road travel.

Beyond just JB-KL, this new service opens up a wider network of connectivity.

From JB Sentral, passengers can seamlessly connect to other major northern destinations such as Ipoh and Padang Besar, transforming the landscape of inter-state travel. This expanded reach underscores KTMB's commitment to building a comprehensive and efficient national rail system.

The official launch was graced by the Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke, who highlighted the significance of this development in enhancing Malaysia's transport infrastructure and boosting economic activities along the rail corridor.

With its engaging new services, the ETS is not just a train; it's a catalyst for convenience, connectivity, and progress across Malaysia.