MALAYSIA, October 2025 — Train travel across Southeast Asia is experiencing a strong resurgence, with Malaysia emerging as a leader through major investments in its rail infrastructure and services. This renewed focus on rail is designed to boost regional connectivity while offering a more sustainable and appealing travel option part of a broader movement that celebrates the experience of the journey itself.

Malaysia’s national rail operator, KTM, is set to receive 62 new train sets from China by 2027, backed by an investment of 10.7 billion Malaysian ringgit. This modernization initiative aims to increase service frequency and enhance operational reliability. Simultaneously, major infrastructure projects such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, and the Mutiara Line are progressing steadily. Together, these developments form part of an integrated strategy to create a more connected and efficient rail network across Peninsular Malaysia.

The benefits of these upgrades are significant. Travel times are set to be dramatically reduced, with the Electric Train Service (ETS) expected to connect Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur in just three and a half hours by the end of 2025 comparable to driving, but without the congestion. Improved rail mobility is anticipated to stimulate economic activity, promote tourism, and strengthen regional cooperation across borders.

Beyond convenience, the revival of train travel resonates with travelers seeking a richer experience. Malaysia’s scenic routes cutting through rice paddies, plantations, and forested landscapes—offer a nostalgic yet modern journey through the heart of the country. According to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, these enhancements are expected to attract more passengers, reaffirming rail’s role as a central pillar of Malaysia’s evolving transportation future.

Source: China Daily Hong Kong