For those who prefer train travel over driving, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) has exciting news. Starting August 1, KTMB will introduce the ETS Express service, featuring a revamped schedule for its electric train service (ETS) routes.
New Schedule For Efficiency
This new schedule coincides with the Phase 1 upgrade project for the Klang Valley Double Track (KDVT) electrification, covering the segment from Rawang to KL Sentral. KTMB highlighted that this update also improves connectivity with other train services, including Komuter Utara, Ekspres Selatan, and Ekspres Rakyat Timuran at key stations.
Faster Travel With ETS Express
Image via KTMB
The ETS Express will enhance travel efficiency by including six express services out of the existing 32, catering to routes from KL Sentral to Ipoh, Butterworth, and Padang Besar. These express trains will only stop at major stations, significantly reducing travel times.
Travel times on these routes will range from two to four hours, providing a much quicker journey. KTMB noted that this initiative is designed to encourage public use of rail-based transport, ensuring both comfort and safety.
The new ETS Express will cut travel times by 40 minutes compared to the current KTMB ETS Platinum service on routes such as:
- KL Sentral – Ipoh – KL Sentral
- KL Sentral – Butterworth – KL Sentral
- KL Sentral – Padang Besar – KL Sentral
New ETS Express Schedule
Image via KTMB
From August 1, the daily train frequency remains the same, featuring:
- Over 5 trains to Ipoh, Perak
- Over 5 trains to Padang Besar, Perlis
- 6 trains to Penang
Specifically, the ETS Express services will include:
- 2 ETS Express services from KL Sentral to Ipoh and back
- 2 ETS Express services from KL Sentral to Butterworth and back
- 2 ETS Express services from KL Sentral to Padang Besar and back
Stations With Reduced Services
With the new express services, some stations will see a reduction in service frequency, including:
- Tanjung Malim, Perak
- Bukit Mertajam, Penang
- Kuala Kangsar, Perak
Ticket Purchase Information
Tickets for travel between August and November will be available starting today, May 30 at 12 noon. Passengers can purchase tickets through KTMB’s website.
