After years of anticipation, Malaysia’s Electric Train Service (ETS) officially extends to Johor Bahru on December 12, 2025. This game-changing development cuts travel time between KL and JB in half and opens exciting new possibilities for Singaporeans exploring Malaysia.
A Faster, More Comfortable Journey
The new ETS route transforms the KL-JB journey dramatically. Where diesel trains currently take seven hours, the ETS3 completes the trip in about 4.5 hours at speeds up to 140 km/h. The train stops at Segamat, Kluang, Kulai, and Kempas Baru before reaching JB Sentral, making previously hard-to-reach Johor towns easily accessible.
Modern amenities include USB charging ports, clean onboard toilets, and a cafeteria. Each train accommodates 300 to 500 passengers, with multiple daily services planned.
Ticket Prices and How to Book
ETS tickets from JB Sentral to KL Sentral start from RM82, with three service classes available:
- ETS Platinum: Premium service with fewest stops and complimentary snacks
- ETS Gold: Balanced option with fewer stops than Silver
- ETS Silver: Most economical, stopping at all stations
Launch special: 30% discount for tickets purchased December 12 to January 11, 2026, using promo code JBBEST (limited to 5,000 redemptions).
Booking Your Tickets from Singapore
Official KTMB Channels:
- KITS Website: Book at online.ktmb.com.my with account registration
- KITS Style App: Download for mobile booking
- Kiosks and Counters: Available at JB Sentral and other stations
Seamless Connectivity to Singapore
For Singaporeans, the real excitement lies in the enhanced connectivity this service brings. JB Sentral, the terminal station for the ETS, is strategically located and will soon connect to Singapore’s upcoming Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link). The RTS project, linking Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore, is scheduled for completion in December 2026 with operations commencing in early 2027.
This integration means Singaporeans will soon be able to travel from Woodlands North MRT via the RTS to JB Sentral, then seamlessly board the ETS to Kuala Lumpur and beyond, all without dealing with traffic congestion at the Causeway. The connection between the two services will feature sheltered walkways, escalators, and lifts for easy transfers.
A New Era of Travel
This ETS extension represents more than improved transportation—it’s a gateway to easier business travel, tourism, and exploring Malaysia without driving stress. For Singaporeans, it means convenient access to Johor’s attractions and the ability to venture deeper into Malaysia with speed and comfort.
As Malaysia completes its West Coast rail electrification, the December 12 launch marks a new chapter in cross-border connectivity, bringing Kuala Lumpur within easy reach and transforming how we explore our northern neighbor.
