BANGKOK, August 2025 — Cross-border rail travel in Southeast Asia is set for a revival as Thailand and Malaysia work together to restore the Bangkok–Butterworth rail service this year. The initiative marks a major step in strengthening regional tourism and connectivity, while advancing ASEAN’s broader railway development agenda.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and Malaysia’s Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) recently held discussions to deepen cooperation in rail development. Among the key outcomes were the revival of the Bangkok–Butterworth service, plans for double-track rail routes, integration of ticketing systems, and the establishment of joint emergency protocols.

The service was suspended in 2016 due to railway upgrades in Malaysia. Its reinstatement will eliminate the need for passengers to switch trains at Padang Besar, as immigration checks will be conducted onboard—similar to the system already in place for the Bangkok–Vientiane route.

SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala emphasized the meeting’s theme, “Railnaissance,” reflecting the renewal of the regional railway system. The partnership highlights rail’s strategic importance in ASEAN, building on earlier agreements between the transport ministries of both countries to strengthen regional links.

The return of the Bangkok–Butterworth line is expected to significantly enhance passenger convenience and support tourism growth between Thailand and Malaysia. This move aligns with wider efforts to improve rail connectivity and infrastructure across the region, contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

Source: Nation Thailand