WHILE much of the attention on Budget 2027, tabled on Oct 9, has centred on measures like cash assistance and tax changes, its public transport commitments deserve equal attention.
Beyond the investments an- nounced, the real test is whether they can make everyday journeys easier and more reliable and affordable.
Among the measures announc-ed were Prasarana’s investment of over RM3.4bil to overhaul its rail services and the government’s planned procurement of 42 new trainsets for the ETS (Electric Train Service) and KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd) Komuter services.
Another RM270mil has been allocated to strengthen stage bus services in major cities.
(Prasarana is the government- owned company that manages and operates most of Malaysia’s public transport systems.)
These investments will, over time, improve public transport reliability, with better-maintained trains, greater capacity, and stronger bus services for daily commuters. For those working in the area, reliable public transport means getting to work on time without the added cost of an alternative ride.
Alongside these improvements, Budget 2027 continues the My50 travel pass and introduces My- Komuter50. The latter is expected to benefit 40,000 KTM Komuter users, with average savings of up to RM160 a month.
More affordable fares, supported by dependable services, can make public transport a practical choice for more households.
This builds on the Transport Ministry’s sustained attention under Minister Anthony Loke on improving the network and keeping travel affordable.
Through my community work in Kuala Lumpur, especially the Bukit Bintang area, I am conscious that the city must work for the people who keep it running.
Behind its gleaming malls and vibrant dining scene are workers who depend on affordable, reliable transport to keep the city open and working.
Public transport keeps most modern cities moving, as seen in London, New York, and Singa-pore, where it is an essential part of daily life. KL should continue moving in that direction, gradually reducing reliance on private vehicles. An efficient network gives people access to jobs, education, and essential services.
But the journey does not end at the station’s entrance. Budget 2027 also announced 22km of covered walkways in KL, linking landmarks such as Masjid Negara, Dataran Merdeka, and Pasar Seni.
It further promised covered connections between residential areas, businesses, schools, clinics, and public transport stations.
In Malaysia’s climate, a comfortable walk can make a real difference to whether someone takes public transport. Shelter should be continuous, crossings safe, and pavements accessible to wheelchair users, older people, and parents with prams.
Better connectivity can also complement another Budget 2027 commitment: the restoration of KL Railway Station, the KTMB headquarters, and Menara Daya-bumi, subsequently elaborated on by the Transport Minister.
Making these places easier to reach can encourage people to explore the surrounding streets, shops, and eateries.
This fits the wider direction of Warisan KL, which brings together heritage conservation, improv-ed public spaces, and pedestrian connectivity.
To maximise these investments, Kuala Lumpur City Hall and transport operators should coordinate routes with neighbourhood needs and business activities.
Connections to markets, commercial streets, and heritage attractions can bring customers to local traders while serving residents’ everyday journeys.
Last-mile access also needs equal attention.
Reliable feeder buses, convenient transfers, and walking routes that remain usable after dark would help commuters make better use of the network.
Residents and businesses should be consulted on missing links before plans are finalised.
Clear maintenance responsibilities and timely information during disruptions would also help protect public confidence.
Budget 2027 provides a welcome foundation for public transport. Its benefits will be felt most clearly when a worker can get from home to work affordably, reliably, and with fewer difficulties along the way.
BEN FONG KOK SENG
Kuala Lumpur
The writer is the chairperson of the Bukit Bintang Parliamentary Zone Residents’ Representative Council.
