Project connects electric train services from both ends of the peninsula
JOHOR BARU: The launch of the Gemas-Johor Baru Electrified Double-Tracking Project (EDTP) is a momentous development model for the entire country, says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it paves the way for the Electric Train Service (ETS) between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru to start operations from today.
“We have completed a very important chapter – a comprehensive transportation network that is essential for the development of Johor and the country.
“We have almost completed the basic infrastructure in our country, and the main challenge is ensuring that the benefits are felt by the rakyat.
“The federal and state governments must work together to ensure that the building of these new stations has a trickle-down effect on the local communities too,” he said in his speech at the launch of ETS 3 service between Gemas and Johor Baru at the Kempas Baru train station here yesterday.
The long-awaited project was officiated by Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
On the right track: (From left, front row) Tunku Ismail, Loke and Anwar attending the launch of the ETS 3 train service at the Kempas Baru station. — Picture from the Prime Minister’s Office
Also present was Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Anwar said the uniqueness of the Madani economy is to strive for greater development while fulfilling a moral responsibility to uplift the people.
“We will utilise these facilities to not only generate additional revenue for our country, but also to improve Malaysia’s status,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the government had listened to proposals and suggestions to realise the aspirations of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
He said this was reflected in the federal Budget 2026 he had unveiled, with national leaders seeking the views and suggestions of respective state leaders.
According to Loke, the completion of the EDTP marks a significant milestone in the nation’s rail development.
He said it is a major achievement that reflects the government’s commitment to improving public transport services for the people.
“This effort not only benefits the people of Johor, but also contributes to the overall direction of national development.
“The project is among the government’s initiatives to improve public transport services from the northern to the southern regions of the peninsula.
“It aims to enhance transportation infrastructure capacity, upgrade the national railway network and introduce a fully electrified double-tracking service,” he added.
Loke said the frequency of the Johor Baru-Kuala Lumpur ETS service will be doubled to four trips daily in each direction in January, with subsequent increases to follow.
“The service is expected to be optimised by March in time for the Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations,” he said.
The minister added that with the launch of ETS 3, Johor Baru will be connected all the way to Padang Besar in the north.
“This is a new achievement in the country’s public transportation network, specifically rail networks.
“We hope this can positively influence consumer behaviour towards public transportation,” he said, adding that there will be further integration with existing infrastructure.
This included plans to introduce commuter services between Kulai and Johor Baru – with train rides between both destinations lasting only about 20 minutes – expected to begin by the first quarter of 2026.
“It is currently being designed, and we are trying to procure new trainsets for the commuter line. While waiting, we will optimise existing coaches previously used to serve passengers travelling between Gemas and Johor Baru,” he said.
Loke said the initiative is part of a wider plan to integrate public transport services in Johor Baru such as ETS, KTMB, RTS, buses and eventually, the ART system.
He said the service is expected to offer 16 trips daily from Johor Baru to Kulai, and another 16 the other way round.
Loke noted that before the completion of the ETS 3 line, passengers had to disembark at Gemas to switch trains.
“As that is no longer necessary, it enables us to redeploy the existing coaches for the Kulai-Johor Baru commuter service.
“Since the distance is shorter, we are able to increase frequency and ensure trains run almost every half hour,” he added.
