KUALA LUMPUR: Exciting changes are on the horizon as Malaysia's national rail operator, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM), aims to create a seamless railway network connecting Malaysia to Indochina, China, and even Europe! Under its new acting chief executive officer, Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin, the focus is on revitalizing rail travel and freight services.

Restoring the Scenic Connection to Bangkok

In a bold move, Ahmad Nizam, who assumed his role in August, plans to revive the picturesque rail route from Butterworth, Penang to Bangkok — a beloved service that had been suspended for nearly a decade. During his first media interview, he emphasized the critical task of integrating Malaysia's railways with its neighbors to enhance profitability and sustain KTM's operations.

Keeping an Eye on the ASEAN Express

Another ambitious project on his agenda is the ASEAN Express freight service, launched back in June 2024, which connects Malaysia with Thailand, Laos, and China. Despite its stalled operations due to customs challenges, Ahmad Nizam is determined to navigate these hurdles to tap into untapped revenue streams.

Breaking Down Barriers for Streamlined Freight

Ahmad Nizam revealed that although the ASEAN Express aims to deliver goods faster than traditional shipping methods—by cutting logistics costs by up to 30%—tight customs regulations have held back its full potential. He stresses the urgent need for governmental discussions to resolve these obstacles, paving the way for smoother passage of goods across borders.

Innovative Passenger Connectivity

On the passenger front, plans are underway to extend the Electric Train Service (ETS) to Padang Besar in Perlis, allowing travelers to seamlessly connect with Thai rail systems headed to popular destinations like Hat Yai or Bangkok. The ETS will also expand to Johor Bahru, promising rapid travel between major cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, with journeys taking just 3.5 hours.

Future of Rail: Reviving the Butterworth-Bangkok Route

Crucially, Ahmad Nizam is also working to bring back the direct train service between Butterworth and Bangkok. With discussions underway with the State Railway of Thailand, this revival aims to enhance cross-border travel and stimulate tourism and trade.

Challenges and Future Goals

Despite facing significant financial challenges—with liabilities exceeding RM2 billion—Ahmad Nizam remains optimistic. He acknowledges the pressing need for KTM to achieve profitability and is dedicated to presenting a solid plan to the board this September.

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