Rail transport in Asia is undergoing a powerful transformation, one driven by the need for sustainability, efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort. From high-speed networks to expanding urban transit systems, countries across the region are reimagining how people and goods move, adopting technologies that deliver cleaner, quieter, and more energy-efficient journeys.

Amid this regional push toward modernisation, Nitto is emerging as a key player shaping the next generation of rail innovation. Its breakthrough Lightweight Sound Damping Material (SDM) is redefining how trains are designed and experienced, offering a new balance between performance, comfort, and environmental responsibility.

Recently, Nitto Denko India Private Limited, a subsidiary of the Nitto Group, achieved a significant milestone by qualifying its Lightweight Sound Damping Material (SDM) for use in Indian Railways and Metro networks. This achievement is more than a technical success; it represents how advanced materials can reshape the future of rail travel across Asia, including here in Malaysia.

In a recent engagement with Nitto Denko Materials (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, the RAIL ASIA team explored how SDM can support Malaysia’s mobility and industrial ambitions as the country expands its MRT and LRT networks and modernises KTM Komuter services. Discussions focused on how next-generation sound-damping technology can deliver superior acoustic performance without the traditional weight penalty that increases traction energy and system wear.

Traditionally, sound damping materials used in rail coaches have been heavy, adding considerable weight and reducing operational efficiency. Nitto’s SDM offers a transformative alternative delivering superior noise reduction at a fraction of the weight. This innovation contributes directly to lighter train designs, lower energy consumption, and enhanced sustainability. For India, the adoption of SDM translates into measurable fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions across one of the world’s largest railway networks.

A recent milestone underscores the technology’s readiness. Nitto Denko India Private Limited, a Nitto Group subsidiary, has secured qualification of SDM for Indian Railways and metro networks  among the most demanding rail environments in the world.

For India, fleet-scale adoption is expected to support tangible energy savings and carbon reductions. For Malaysia, where rapid transit continues to expand and long-discussed high-speed projects remain on the horizon, SDM offers a proven path to enhance passenger comfort while meeting national sustainability goals.

Nitto’s alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is clear and deliberate. Environmentally, the development of lighter rolling stock reduces energy consumption and lowers emissions throughout the train’s lifecycle. Socially, quieter cabins created by SDM enhance passenger comfort and improve working conditions for rail staff. From a governance perspective, Nitto’s consistent investment in sustainable materials and transparent supply chains reflects its adherence to international rail standards and reinforces its commitment to responsible, future-focused industrial practices.

With ongoing rail modernization efforts including the KTM Komuter electrification program, MRT network expansions, and potential high-speed rail projects Malaysia is well positioned to leverage proven technologies like Nitto’s SDM. Integrating such materials will further strengthen Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable mobility and advanced engineering solutions.

Nitto Denko Materials (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has expressed its readiness to collaborate with local partners, rail operators, and government stakeholders to introduce this cutting-edge solution to the Malaysian market. The company’s efforts reflect a shared vision of driving the region’s transition toward quieter, greener, and more efficient rail systems.

The initiative by Nitto exemplifies how continuous innovation and cross-border collaboration can accelerate the evolution of Asia’s rail industry setting new standards for performance, sustainability, and passenger satisfaction.

Inside view of a metro coach under construction, featuring Nitto’s Legetolex sound-damping material installed along the floor section 

Contributed by Nitto Denko Materials (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd for Rail Asia.
For further product and technology enquiries, please reach out to Nitto South East Asia Technical Team