The Electric Train Service 3 (ETS3) will soon extend its operations to Johor Bahru, marking the final stage of the long-awaited southern expansion. According to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, the new service is expected to begin operations by mid-December.
Image credit: Raymond Manuel
Boosting Johor’s connectivity and tourism
Loke said the extension will significantly enhance Johor’s public transport network and promote regional tourism in line with Visit Malaysia and Visit Johor 2026 initiatives.
“We are completing the final preparations, but the ETS service to Johor Bahru will definitely commence by mid-December,” adding that the addition will offer greater travel convenience while benefitting smaller towns such as:
- Kluang
- Kulai
- Labis
- Segamat
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Completing the west coast rail line
This extension marks a major milestone in Malaysia railway development. Previously, the ETS route ended at Gemas, Negeri Sembilan. With the new line, the service will continue south through Kluang, Kulai, Labis, and Segamat before reaching Johor Bahru Sentral Station, effectively completing the West Coast rail corridor that links major urban centers across Peninsular Malaysia.
Image credit: Malaysia Trains
Loke added that the technical and safety checks are in their final stages, with ticket prices expected to be announced soon. The route is anticipated to improve travel efficiency and drive economic and tourism growth throughout Johor.
Initially targeted for August or September launch
The ETS3 extension was initially scheduled to launch in August or September, but the start date was postponed to allow for final testing and system upgrades. With the line now stated for mid-December, authorities remain confident the service will be ready in time to support increased travel demand during the year end period and beyond.
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