KL to JB ETS Train Service Expected to Launch Officially in August 2025!

After nearly a decade in the making, Malaysia's long-awaited Electric Train Service (ETS) is finally extending its reach south! Get ready for direct, electrified double-track train travel from Kuala Lumpur all the way to Johor Bahru, expected to kick off officially in August 2025.

Also read: 7 Free Things to Do in Johor Bahru (JB): Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss!

KL-JB Train Ride Cut Down to Just 3.5 Hours!

Image credit: KTM Berhad official website

Currently, a train trip from KL to JB can take a whopping 7 hours. But once the ETS comes online, that journey will be slashed to a speedy 3.5 to 4.5 hours! This is a game-changer for north-south domestic travel, promising to revolutionise how we move between the capital and the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia.

What's the Deal with the KL-JB ETS?

Image credit: KTM Berhad official website

The ETS has traditionally served only the northern parts of West Malaysia, connecting places like Ipoh, Penang, and Padang Besar. Southern regions, meanwhile, have relied on the slower KTM Intercity diesel trains.

This extension, officially known as the "Gemas to JB Sentral Electrified Double Track Project," will finally bring the electric train line right into Johor Bahru. This massive RM9.5 billion project, which began way back in 2017, marks the completion of the electrified railway network along Malaysia's west coast.

Where Will the KL-JB ETS Stop?

Once fully operational, ETS trains will run directly from KL Sentral to JB Sentral. Along the way, they'll make stops at key towns including Segamat, Kluang, and Kulai.

With top speeds of 140 km/h, the total journey is projected to be just 3.5 to 4.5 hours.

How Comfy Will Your ETS Ride Be?

Image credit: KTM Berhad official website

The brand-new ETS 3 trains have arrived in Malaysia and are currently undergoing final tests. Designed with long-distance comfort in mind, these sleek trains will feature:

• 312 comfortable seats

• Onboard Wi-Fi

• USB charging ports

• Ample luggage space

Initially, there will be 22 daily services, each capable of carrying between 300 to 500 passengers, expecting to serve up to 3,000 commuters daily.

Good News for Singaporeans Too!

This new train line isn't just for Malaysians; it's a huge win for Singaporeans as well! Once it's running, travellers can simply cross the border into JB, hop on the ETS at JB Sentral, and enjoy a hassle-free, direct journey to KL – no more traffic jams or flights needed!

Combine this with the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link, expected to open in 2026, and cross-border travel is set to become incredibly smooth and seamless.

Can You Still Take the Train from KL to JB Now?

Image credit: KTM Berhad official website

While the full ETS service isn't ready yet, you can still travel by train. However, it's a two-step process:

• Take the ETS from KL Sentral to Gemas.

• Then transfer to a KTM Intercity diesel train from Gemas to JB Sentral.

This current journey takes around 6 to 7 hours. If you're looking for speed right now, buses and driving are still your quicker options.

Also read: Things to Do in Kulai: Your Local Guide to the Best Experiences in 2025

Whether you're planning a long holiday or just a quick weekend escape, this brand-new ETS route promises a more comfortable and much faster way to get around. Soon, whether you're heading south for delicious seafood or north to explore the capital, the ETS will be your new go-to for a relaxed and eco-friendly trip!

Read this article in Chinese: KL 到 JB 的 ETS 火车来了！预计 2025 年 8 月正式开通