The long-awaited ETS3 southern expansion will boost travel, trade, and tourism ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
Malaysia’s Electric Train Service (ETS) is set to extend its reach to Johor Bahru by mid-December, marking a major milestone in the nation’s railway development. The ETS3 expansion will enhance connectivity across the west coast corridor and strengthen Johor’s position as a key tourism and economic hub ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
A Landmark Rail Connection
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that the Electric Train Service 3 (ETS3) southern expansion is in its final stages and will begin operating “no later than mid-December.” Once launched, the new route will connect Johor Bahru to the existing west coast rail network that stretches from Padang Besar to Gemas.
Loke said the new service aims to provide an efficient travel option for both residents and tourists, while also promoting economic activities along smaller towns. “This is an additional mode of transport in Johor, and I am confident it can help the tourism sector, especially in towns like Segamat, Labis, Kluang, and Kulai,” he told reporters.
Boost for Tourism and Local Economies
The ETS3 expansion comes at a strategic time, with Visit Malaysia 2026 and Visit Johor 2026 expected to attract millions of visitors. Improved train connectivity will make it easier for travelers to explore secondary destinations, supporting local economies and small businesses.
Johor’s tourism industry, already one of Malaysia’s most dynamic, is set to benefit from increased domestic and cross-border travel. The new service will also ease congestion on highways and offer a greener alternative to car and bus travel.
Completing the West Coast Rail Link
Previously, the ETS route ended at Gemas in Negeri Sembilan. With the extension, the service will now run further south through Segamat, Kluang, and Kulai, before terminating at Johor Bahru Sentral Station. This will complete the electrified west coast rail corridor of Peninsular Malaysia—an infrastructure achievement years in the making.
According to Loke, all technical and safety checks are in progress, with ticket prices to be announced soon. “We are finalising the last preparations before launch,” he said, noting that the government aims to ensure smooth operations from the start.
A Step Toward Sustainable Mobility
The ETS3 expansion aligns with Malaysia’s broader transport strategy to improve intercity rail connectivity and reduce reliance on private vehicles. By linking major and secondary towns, the project promotes sustainable urban mobility and inclusive regional development.
For Johor Bahru, the southern gateway to Singapore, the ETS3 line is expected to strengthen its role as a regional transport hub and complement future cross-border projects like the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS).
As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, the ETS3 southern expansion represents more than just a new railway—it’s a symbol of national progress, connectivity, and sustainability. By linking Johor Bahru with key towns and the wider rail network, Malaysia is setting the stage for stronger regional integration and more inclusive tourism growth that benefits both travelers and local communities.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , Scoop.my (2025)
Keywords: Johor Bahru, ETS3, Electric Train Service, Malaysia Railway, Tourism Development, Transport Connectivity
