Malaysia High-Speed Rail ETS: Southern Route Launch and JB Extension
- Erik & Aya
- Oct 3
- 3 min read
ETS3: Southern Route Opening and Johor Bahru Extension Plan
The ETS3 (Electric Train Service 3), operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), is drawing attention as a major development that will transform the railway network in southern Malaysia.
What is ETS (Electric Train Service)?
ETS (Electric Train Service) is a high-speed rail service operated by KTMB (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad / Malaysian Railways).
How does it work?
The service uses the existing West Coast Line.
This line has been electrified (with overhead wires and upgraded signalling systems).
In addition to conventional diesel trains, high-speed electric trains (ETS) now run on the same tracks.
👉 A unique feature is that both diesel and electric trains share the same railway line.
Differences between conventional trains and ETS
🚆 KTM (Conventional Intercity & Komuter)
Diesel locomotives or commuter trains
More stops / slower travel times
⚡ ETS (Electric Train Service)
High-speed electric express trains
Faster and more comfortable long-distance travel
Main routes: KL–Ipoh, KL–Butterworth, KL–Johor Bahru (scheduled to open end of 2025)
Extension to Kluang (August 2025)
On August 30, 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, carrying 280 passengers on its six-car formation.
Passengers expressed joy, noting that:
“Travel time from Taiping to Kluang has been shortened from over five hours to about three hours.”
“By bus, it takes nearly four hours, but by train, it now only takes around two hours.”
The new facilities, including reclining seats, a dining car, and clean toilets, were also well received.
Both railway enthusiasts and local students welcomed the service, saying it makes travel much more convenient and will have a positive impact on tourism in Johor.
Extension to JB Sentral Scheduled by Year-End
Furthermore, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that the final phase of ETS3, extending the line to JB Sentral (Johor Bahru Sentral), is scheduled to begin operations in December 2025.
At present, the tracks and infrastructure are already complete, with only signalling adjustments remaining. The Ministry of Transport is closely monitoring the project’s progress to ensure it is completed and launched within the year.
💡 Aug 2025: ETS3 extended to Kluang (now in service)
💡 Dec 2025 (planned): Extension to Johor Bahru Sentral
💡 Faster & more comfortable travel from KL to Southern Johor
The opening of ETS3 is expected to bring great convenience to both tourists and local residents, further boosting the development of Johor state.
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📚 Sources
NEW STRAITS TIMES-"ETS 3 final phase to Johor Bahru Sentral set for December launch"（Aug 26, 2025）
NEW STRAITS TIMES-"ETS3 debuts on southern route, boots Johor connectivity"(Aug 30, 2025)
KTM Official Site-KTMB Train Network https://www.ktmb.com.my/MapsAndRoute.html
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