Cecelia ChangSingapore travellers who frequently head to Johor Bahru will soon have a faster and more convenient way to travel beyond JB all the way to Kuala Lumpur! Malaysia’s long-awaited JB ETS (Electric Train Service) will officially begin operations on 12 Dec, providing a smooth JB to KL train connection that many have been anticipating for years.
The announcement was made by Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who confirmed that the new Johor Bahru ETS route will open with a focus on high-frequency trips between JB and Kuala Lumpur.
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A New Travel Option: Singapore to KL by Train via Johor Bahru
Image credit: Cecelia Chang
For Singaporeans who love quick trips across the Causeway, the new ETS Malaysia service offers an appealing alternative to driving or flying. Travellers will be able to enter Johor Bahru. Plus, in the near future, it will connect directly via the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link, and hop onto the ETS for a direct ride to KL.
Transport experts estimate that once the RTS Link opens by the end of 2026, passengers could travel from Singapore to KL by train in around four hours, combining the fast RTS connection with the new JB ETS line.
JB to KL ETS Journey Time: 3.5 to 4.5 Hours
Image credit: KTMB | Official Website
The new JB–KL train will offer several service tiers — silver, gold, platinum and express — each with different comfort levels and stop counts. Depending on the chosen tier, the journey will take between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, making it one of the most time-efficient ways to travel between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur.
According to acting KTM CEO Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin, the ETS is expected to be more cost-effective than flying while providing a greener and more comfortable travel experience.
Initial Phase Prioritises the JB to KL ETS Route
Minister Loke shared that the first operational phase will concentrate on the Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur sector, where more frequent trips can be scheduled. Longer routes to destinations such as Padang Besar and Butterworth will be added later.
Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, is set to officiate the launch of the JB ETS service on 11 Dec, one day before it opens to the public.
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For Singaporeans, the appeal goes beyond convenience. The new JB ETS introduces an easy way to explore more of Malaysia, from charming towns like Kluang to a smooth rail journey straight into the heart of Kuala Lumpur! Are you excited for it?
