6 hours Ago By Sharen Kaur
KUALA LUMPUR: The Gemas-Johor Bahru electrified double track project (Gemas–JB EDTP) is expected to do more than just cut travel time between major southern cities - it's poised to become a catalyst for regional economic development, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.Loke, in a recent Instagram post, highlighted that the new electrified train service will not only enhance connectivity and mobility across key urban centres but also bolster the broader transportation network, stimulating economic growth in surrounding areas.The EDTP, implemented in phases, is part of Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd's (KTMB) ongoing rail network modernisation programme.
It replaces ageing single-track, diesel-powered lines with electrified double tracks, forming a critical pillar of the government's strategy to improve public transport, freight logistics, and regional connectivity along Peninsular Malaysia's west coast.Earlier phases of the EDTP include the Rawang-Ipoh stretch (completed in 2008), Seremban-Gemas (2013), and Ipoh-Padang Besar (2014). Each segment has played a key role in easing traffic congestion and driving local economic activity.
The final phase namely the 192km Gemas–Johor Bahru segment features 11 stations across the Johor districts of Segamat, Kluang, Kulai and Johor Bahru.Once linked to the Padang Besar-Gemas line, the route will complete a fully electrified rail corridor stretching from the Thai border in Perlis to Malaysia's southern tip.When operational, the Gemas–JB line will offer 22 daily services, each accommodating 300 to 500 passengers.
The service will mirror KTMB's Komuter networks, providing fast, frequent rail options to southern commuters.Travel time between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru will be slashed from seven hours on a diesel train to just 3.5 hours on the new electric trains, which are capable of speeds up to 140 km/h.
Despite facing challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, land acquisition hurdles, delayed deliveries of train sets from China, and stringent testing procedures, the project has made steady progress.With a total project cost of RM9.5 billion, the line had reached 98.
1 per cent completion as of November 2024 and is on track to be fully operational by August 2025.The first ETS3 train set has already arrived, featuring 312 seats, WiFi, USB charging ports, and generous luggage space - all aimed at delivering a more comfortable and modern passenger experience.Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi recently announced that ETS services from Segamat began in March, with Labis following in April, Kluang in May, and the final extension to Johor Bahru scheduled for September.
To commemorate the launch of ETS services to Segamat, main contractor SIPP-YTL JV participated in the "Yok ke Segamat" programme - a joint initiative by KTMB and the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC).The event was officiated by Loke, who arrived in Segamat via ETS from KL Sentral on March 15.During the visit, Loke flagged off the Segamat-Butterworth ETS service and inspected station upgrades, including newly-improved waiting areas, ticketing counters, digital information displays and facilities for individuals with disabilities (OKU).
"The working visit to Segamat provided an opportunity to experience firsthand the new ETS service, which is a major step toward strengthening the public transportation network," Loke said."During the trip, I received a comprehensive briefing on the Gemas–JB service, which is on track for full completion this year."SIPP-YTL JV expressed its appreciation to the Transport Ministry, KTMB and RAC.
"We remain fully committed to supporting the government's ambition to strengthen Malaysia's rail infrastructure for the benefit of all," the company said in a LinkedIn post.Once completed, KTMB expects the EDTP to also enhance freight movement - particularly between Port Klang and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas - further solidifying its role as a strategic logistics corridor.© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd.
