New ETS Lines, Bridging Cities, Boosting Connectivity
Are you familiar with Malaysia’s train network? Lately, much of the conversation has centered around the RTS Link, which is set to connect Johor Bahru and Singapore, with completion targeted for 2027.
What’s more interesting, but often less talked about—is the role of ETS. This new rail line goes beyond a single cross-border connection. ETS bridges cities and towns across Peninsular Malaysia, creating a true backbone of connectivity. More importantly, it fills a long-standing gap by linking train commuters from across the peninsula directly to Johor Bahru.
The Malaysia Electronic Train Service (ETS) has just started operations in August 2025 and it is considered an intercity electric rail system operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTMB)
In many ways, ETS is the missing connector, as it was initially launched in 2010 to Padang Besar, Perlis line and currently it is connected to the southern peninsular in Kluang, with stops in Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Butterworth, Penang and more.
This southern expansion is closing the connectivity gap with the 192km of rail infrastructure connecting Klang Valley to Johor. With this, travel time has been reduced significantly with the ETS, from the previous diesel service taking close to 7 hours and with the ETS service it now operates at approximately 3.5 - 4.5 hours, cutting the travel time by half.
Economic spillover will definitely be profound from real estate, tourism, retail and services, as it is connected to smaller towns from Segamat, Kluang, Kulai and Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur — enabling smoother, reliable links for commuters, business travellers, and tourists. along the railway. With the faster travel, it also broadens the labour market allowing people from Southern to possibly work in Klang Valley and vice versa.
Seeing this trend, it will have a direct impact on property demand. Based on past records, with major transport infrastructure projects, rail lines, highways, MRT, LRT it has supported property value growth around station precincts as it enhanced accessibility. The estimated property value uplift of approximately 20% with properties around some stations hubs and overhang of properties around 3000 units has been taken up. (Source: News Straits Times).
This positive development with the ETS will show a change in lifestyle preference, shifting from properties requirements. Secondary towns will now become more accessible and for people who seek affordable living and reliable connectivity. With the commuter catchment areas of suburban cities connected, it will help the rental growth and demand in town that were previously not accessible.
The development and upgrade to the ETS is turning fragmented routes into a continuous, accessible network and redefining how people move, work, and live across states.
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