Jointly organised by Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysian Rail Industry Corporation (MARIC), Malaysia Rail Development Corporation (MRDC), and Beijing Jiaotong University (BJTU), the forum provides a platform for industry, academia, and government stakeholders to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and explore innovative solutions shaping the next generation of rail systems.
The one-day programme will feature keynote addresses, technical presentations, industry showcases, networking sessions, and panel discussions covering critical areas such as transit-oriented development (TOD), multimodal logistics integration, rail investment opportunities, localisation strategies, digitalisation, and rail sustains
Among the highlights of the forum are keynote presentations by senior representatives from MRT Corporation, CRSC International Company Limited, Beijing Jiaotong University, SRS LRT, and MARIC. The event is also expected to feature a special address by the Minister of Transport Malaysia, YB Anthony Loke, alongside the launch of several significant industry initiatives, including the Malaysia Rail Industry Report 2025–2026, the Consortium for Rail Advancement and Technology Exchange (CREATE), and a publication documenting the history of high-speed rail development.
Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in dedicated plenary sessions focused on urban rail infrastructure, logistics networks, rail sector investment, and ecosystem development strategies aimed at strengthening Malaysia's rail industry competitiveness.
According to the organisers, IRTF 2026 reflects the growing importance of rail as a catalyst for sustainable mobility, economic growth, and regional connectivity. The forum is expected to foster stronger collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, academia, and technology providers as Malaysia advances its rail transformation agenda.
Rail Asia is proud to support IRTF 2026 as a media partner and looks forward to covering the key announcements, industry insights, and strategic discussions emerging from this important gathering of rail professionals and decision-makers.
