Malaysia’s Johor Bahru Kuala Lumpur High-Speed ETS Launching on 12 December 2025
Johor Bahru Kuala Lumpur High-Speed ETS
Malaysia is gearing up to commission a flagship mobility asset as the long-anticipated Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur High-Speed ETS (Electric Train Service) line becomes operational on 12 December 2025. This activation closes the final major gap in the national rail spine, empowering the country with a next-generation intercity transport ecosystem optimised for speed, reliability, and cost efficiency.
Beyond the operational milestone, the initiative unlocks strategic downstream value — strengthening tourism flows, elevating business travel, and enabling seamless cross-border passenger movement. With the Singapore–Johor Bahru RTS Link set to launch in 2026, the ETS corridor is positioned to reshape regional mobility dynamics by integrating Singapore, Johor, and Kuala Lumpur into a streamlined rail network.
Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur High-Speed ETS Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Name | ETS High-Speed Intercity: Johor Bahru ⇄ Kuala Lumpur |
| Launch Date | 12 December 2025 |
| Operator | KTM Berhad |
| Train Type | High-Speed Electric Train Service (ETS) |
| Estimated Journey Time | Faster than existing intercity travel; optimised for speed & reliability |
| Daily Frequency | Multiple daily departures (peak-hour enhanced) |
| Major Hubs | JB Sentral, Gemas, Seremban, KL Sentral |
| Connectivity Extension | RTS Link (Singapore ⇄ Johor) by 2026 |
| Passenger Segments | Commuters, cross-border travellers, executives, tourists |
Johor Bahru Kuala Lumpur High-Speed ETS Train Route
Primary Route
Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) → Kempas Baru → Kulai → Kluang → Segamat → Gemas → Seremban → Kajang → Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral)
Key Route Highlights
- Fully electrified double-track system from JB Sentral to Gemas, enabling high-speed operations.
- Gemas–KL Sentral section already operates on established high-performance ETS infrastructure.
- Enhanced network throughput supports faster journeys and improved on-time performance.
What Travellers Can Expect
1. A Faster, Smoother Journey
High-speed electric rolling stock delivers improved ride stability, comfort, and punctuality — a substantial upgrade from conventional road travel.
2. Competitive Fares
Tiered pricing ensures value-driven options across Standard and Business classes, making the ETS an attractive alternative to flights and buses.
3. Multi-Frequency Service
Multiple departures daily allow passengers to optimise travel schedules for business, leisure, and weekend movement patterns.
4. Seamless Singapore Integration
With the RTS Link launching in 2026:
- Passengers from Singapore travel to JB via RTS.
- Transfer seamlessly to the JB–KL ETS.
- Experience a streamlined, border-to-city high-speed connection.
This integrated travel chain is positioned to reduce dependency on road-based cross-border travel.
Step-by-Step Travel Guide
1. Booking Your Tickets
Passengers may book via:
- KTM Online Booking Portal
- KTM Mobile App
- Ticket counters at JB Sentral and KL Sentral
Recommendation: Reserve early during festive and peak-travel periods.
2. Arriving at the Station
Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure to complete routine security checks and ensure smooth boarding.
3. Boarding & Seating
The ETS fleet offers:
- Standard Class
- Business Class (select services)
- Onboard Wi-Fi (route-dependent)
- Charging ports, reclining seats, luggage racks
4. Baggage Allowance
Carry-on luggage limits apply; oversized luggage must be stored in designated compartments.
5. Arrival in Kuala Lumpur
Trains conclude at KL Sentral, offering direct connectivity to:
- LRT
- MRT
- KLIA Ekspres
- Monorail
- Taxi & e-hailing services
Additional Information
Economic & Strategic Impact
- Strengthens Malaysia’s national rail integration framework.
- Catalyses tourism and business travel across the southern and central corridors.
- Elevates Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur as synergistic economic hubs.
- Enhances regional integration with Singapore through future RTS connectivity.
Ideal For
- Business travellers prioritising speed and reliability.
- Tourists visiting Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and surrounding attractions.
- Regular commuters operating between Johor and Klang Valley.
- Singapore residents planning short, efficient trips to Malaysia’s capital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When does the JB–KL ETS service start?
The service begins 12 December 2025.
2. What is the estimated journey time?
Exact timings will be released at launch, but it will be significantly faster than bus or car travel.
3. What are the start and end stations?
JB Sentral → KL Sentral, with stops including Kluang, Segamat, Gemas, Seremban, and Kajang.
4. Will this improve Singapore–Kuala Lumpur travel?
Yes. When the RTS Link starts in 2026, travellers can switch from RTS to ETS for a seamless Singapore–KL journey.
5. How do I book ETS tickets?
Via the KTM website, KTM Mobile App, or station counters.
6. What trains operate on this route?
High-speed Electric Train Service (ETS) units with upgraded interiors.
7. Will there be multiple departures daily?
Yes, with enhanced frequencies during peak hours.
8. Is Business Class available?
Select services may feature a dedicated Business Class coach.
9. Are food and beverages offered onboard?
Most trains provide a café coach or trolley service.
10. Can I bring large luggage?
Yes — oversized bags must be stored in designated areas.
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