Zoom! Your travel between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru just got a whole lot shorter with the new inter-city Electric Train Service (ETS), officially launching this August 2025.

Photo by KTM Berhad Official Website

As part of the Gemas-JB Sentral line, this new route is operated by the Malaysian national railway operator Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad and is expected to cut down your travel time from the current 7 hours by diesel train to just 4.5 hours.

While the original route already passes through Ipoh, Butterworth, and other popular tourist destinations, new stops include Johor districts such as Segamat, Kluang, and Kulai, and JB Sentral.

Graphic by Confirm Good

By car, driving the same distance between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur would take around four hours, without stops.

Despite multiple delays since construction first began in 2017, this RM9.5 billion final piece of the train line completes Malaysia’s west coast rail electrification program.

Expect to reach speeds of up to 140km/h on Malaysia’s fastest electrified metre gauge rail line.

Photo by KTM Berhad Official Website

There will be multiple trips daily, with 36 on weekdays and 40 on weekends, totalling over 10,900 passengers daily.

Ready to set off? Hop aboard the ETS3 train sets, each seating 312 commuters and featuring onboard Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and ample luggage space. Prepare to relax in comfort with the headrest, food tray, and 3-pin power outlet at each seat.

Photo by KTM Berhad Official Website

There are also allocated seats for the disabled and the elderly in specific carriages, located in close proximity to the unisex and OKU-friendly washrooms for easier access. 

The hunger pangs don’t stop while we’re on the go, so head over to the F&B Bistro at Coach C for a warm meal with a view. The dining area has limited seating with two table bars and four seats, so it’s best to grab your coffee and return to your seat.

Photo by KTM Berhad Official Website

Say goodbye to needing a car for KL roadtrips, because this new train service makes public transport a viable option for those who need to travel between KL and JB.

This article will be updated with information to come.

Electric Train Service MalaysiaFacebook | Instagram | TikTok | Website🕒 Timings vary🗓️ From August 2025 onwards