The long-awaited Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur Electric Train Service (ETS) is set to transform Malaysia’s southern travel corridor. Part of the Gemas–Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Project (EDTP), the extension will finally connect JB Sentral directly to KL Sentral by electric train — cutting travel times by nearly half and bringing new opportunities for commuters, investors, and property buyers.

How Long Will the JB–KL ETS Take?

Today, taking the train from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur can take up to 7 hours using diesel locomotives. With the new electrified line, the ETS will reduce this journey to around 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on service type and number of stops.

ETS trains can travel at speeds of up to 140 km/h, offering smoother, quieter, and more reliable journeys compared to existing diesel services.

Ticket Prices & Classes

Official fares for the JB–KL route will be announced closer to launch, but based on existing ETS routes, here’s what to expect:

One-way fares: Likely from RM100–RM120 for JB → KL, depending on class.
Service tiers:
Platinum Express: Fewer stops, faster journey.
Gold: Balanced between speed and affordability.
Silver: More stops, cheaper tickets.

For comparison, express buses between JB and KL cost RM35–RM50, but take 5–6 hours. The ETS will be faster, more comfortable, and less affected by highway congestion.

Frequency & Stations

The JB–KL ETS will run multiple daily trips, with higher frequencies during weekends and festive periods.

Key stations include:
JB Sentral (gateway to Singapore via RTS)
Kulai
Kluang
Segamat
Gemas (connecting to northern ETS lines)
KL Sentral

This will open up new connectivity for mid-sized Johor towns, giving residents in Kluang and Segamat direct access to Kuala Lumpur.

Connection to Singapore’s RTS Link

The ETS launch will coincide with the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS), scheduled to open in 2026.

The RTS connects Woodlands North MRT in Singapore to Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru, located within walking distance of JB Sentral.

This means Singaporeans can take the MRT to Woodlands, cross into JB via RTS, and connect directly to the ETS for a seamless Singapore–Kuala Lumpur train journey.
Likewise, KL travelers will be able to reach Singapore faster without enduring long traffic jams at the Causeway.

This dual connection will make JB a strategic southern hub, strengthening its role as Malaysia’s gateway to Singapore.

Impact on Real Estate

The ETS will be a game-changer for property markets along the southern corridor.

Johor Bahru (JB Sentral area): Properties near JB Sentral and RTS Bukit Chagar are expected to appreciate in value. Demand will come from own-stay buyers seeking convenience, and investors targeting rental income from commuters and expats.
Kulai & Kluang: These towns, once considered secondary, will become attractive for young families and remote workers. With ETS access to both KL and JB, they offer affordable housing with urban connectivity.
KL-based investors: Easier access may encourage investors from Kuala Lumpur to explore Johor’s lower-priced properties, especially around transit-oriented developments (TODs).

For own-stay buyers, this means more choices in affordable, well-connected homes. For investors, the ETS opens up opportunities for rental demand and long-term capital appreciation.

Remote Working & Lifestyle Shifts

The rise of remote and hybrid working means people are no longer tied to offices five days a week. With the ETS, professionals can live in Johor — where housing is more affordable — and travel to KL occasionally when required.

Similarly, Singaporeans working remotely may choose to base themselves in Johor, benefiting from lower living costs while staying connected via RTS and ETS.

This shift could encourage a new wave of cross-regional commuters, boosting housing demand in Johor Bahru and mid-southern towns.

Why the ETS Matters

The Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur ETS isn’t just a train. It’s a catalyst for growth:

Commuters: Faster, safer, and more reliable journeys.
Tourism: Easier weekend trips between Singapore, JB, and KL.
Businesses: Improved connectivity for logistics, meetings, and trade.
Property Market: Rising demand in Johor and southern towns, benefiting both buyers and investors.

When completed, the ETS will redefine how people live, work, and invest across southern Malaysia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When will the Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur ETS start?
The ETS service is expected to launch in late 2025, once the final Segamat–JB Sentral stretch is completed.

Q2: How long will the ETS take from JB to KL?
The journey is expected to take around 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on the train type and number of stops.

Q3: How much will tickets cost?
Exact fares are not yet confirmed, but based on current ETS pricing, expect RM100–RM120 one way from JB to KL.

Q4: Will the ETS connect to Singapore?
Yes. Through the RTS Link opening in 2026, passengers can easily transfer between Singapore’s MRT (Woodlands North) and JB Sentral, where the ETS departs.

Q5: How will the ETS affect Johor property prices?
Properties near JB Sentral, Bukit Chagar RTS, and along ETS stations (Kulai, Kluang, Segamat) are expected to see higher demand and price appreciation for both own-stay and investment.

Q6: Is the ETS good for remote workers?
Yes. Remote and hybrid workers can live in Johor, enjoy lower housing costs, and commute occasionally to KL or Singapore via ETS and RTS.