JOHOR BARU: Train frequencies for the newly launched Electric Train Service 3 (ETS 3) between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur are set to increase next month, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Loke said the current schedule provides two trips daily from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru each until the end of 2025. From January 2026, the frequency will rise to four trips daily from each stop.
"For the next two or three weeks, there are only two trips from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Baru each day, with one in the morning and one in the evening.
"In January, we will increase to four trips, with further increases in the following months," he said at a press conference after the launch of the Gemas–Johor Baru Electrified Double-Tracking Project (EDTP) at Kempas Baru station on Thursday (Dec 11).
The 192km Gemas–Johor Baru EDTP features 11 modern stations and is designed to enhance mobility, speed and connectivity between the southern region and the Klang Valley.
Loke said services are expected to be optimised by March.
"This would be timely given the Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations," he added.
Loke also announced that the ETS 3 will connect Johor Baru to Padang Besar, marking a new milestone in Malaysia’s public transportation network, especially for rail.
He said this integration aims to positively influence consumer behaviour towards public transport and will be further enhanced with connections to existing infrastructure.
Earlier on Thursday, the long-awaited ETS between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur was officially launched. The service, officiated by Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim at Kempas Baru station, will begin operations on Friday (Dec 12).
Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Transport Minister Anthony Loke were also present.
