【News】Malaysia ETS: Southern Line Opens, Extension to JB

ETS3: Southern Route Opening and Johor Bahru Extension Plan

The ETS3 (Electric Train Service 3), operated by Malaysia’s national railway company KTMB, is attracting attention as a major development set to transform the rail network in southern Malaysia.

What is ETS (Electric Train Service)?

ETS (Electric Train Service) is a high-speed electric train service operated by Malaysia’s national railway, KTMB (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad).

How does it work?

  • The service uses the existing West Coast Line (the western main line).
  • This line has been electrified (with overhead catenary and upgraded signaling), allowing high-speed electric trainsets—ETS—to operate alongside the conventional diesel-hauled trains.
  • In other words, a key feature is that both diesel trains and electric trains run on the same tracks. Differences Between Conventional Trains and ETS

🚆 KTM (conventional Intercity and Komuter)

  • Diesel locomotives or commuter-type trains

  • More stops / longer travel times ⚡ ETS (Electric Train Service)

  • High-speed electric express trainsets

  • Connects long-distance cities quickly and comfortably

  • Main routes: KL–Ipoh, KL–Butterworth, KL–Johor Bahru (scheduled to open by the end of 2025) Extension to Kluang (August 2025)

On 30 August 2025, the southern route of ETS3 officially began operations. The inaugural train departed KL Sentral at 7:45 a.m. and arrived at Kluang Station. The six-car train carried 280 passengers.

Passengers shared positive feedback such as, “The journey from Taiping to Kluang, which used to take more than five hours, has been reduced to about three,” and “By bus it takes nearly four hours, but by rail we arrived in around two.” Satisfaction with the new onboard facilities—such as reclining seats, a dining car, and clean restrooms—also appears high.

Rail enthusiasts and local students have also expressed expectations, saying, “Travel has become much more convenient,” and “This will have a positive impact on tourism in Johor State.”

Planned Opening to JB Sentral by Year-End

Transport Minister Anthony Loke also announced that, as the final phase of ETS3, the extension to JB Sentral is scheduled to begin operations in December 2025.

The track and infrastructure are already complete, with only final signaling system adjustments remaining. The Ministry of Transport is reportedly closely monitoring the project’s progress to ensure the line opens within the year.

💡August 2025: ETS3 opened to Kluang

💡December 2025 (planned): Extension to Johor Bahru Sentral

💡Faster and more comfortable travel from KL to southern Johor

The opening of ETS3 is expected to bring significant convenience for both tourists and local residents, further supporting the development of Johor State.

📚 Sources

NEW STRAITS TIMES-“ETS 3 final phase to Johor Bahru Sentral set for December launch”（Aug 26, 2025）

ETS 3 final phase to Johor Bahru Sentral set for December launch

NEW STRAITS TIMES-“ETS3 debuts on southern route, boots Johor connectivity”(Aug 30, 2025)

ETS3 debuts on southern route, boots Johor connectivity

KTM Official Site-KTMB Train Network https://www.ktmb.com.my/MapsAndRoute.html

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