Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, personally launched the new Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) Electric Train Service 3 (ETS3) southern route in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing his unique passion for railways. His Majesty not only officiated the ceremony but also took control of the train, driving it from Kuala Lumpur to Kluang in Johor.
The ETS3, capable of reaching speeds up to 140 km/h, is designed to improve connectivity between the Klang Valley and southern Peninsular Malaysia. Sultan Ibrahim, who has long been known for his hands-on involvement with trains, piloted the journey that lasted about three hours and 30 minutes. Transport Minister Anthony Loke, senior government officials, and railway executives accompanied him on the special trip. Upon arrival, the King officiated the opening of Mahkota Rail Park in Kluang — a 2.8-kilometre landscaped public space built beneath the Gemas-Johor Bahru electric double-track viaduct.
This milestone marks another step forward for Malaysia’s railway modernisation, promising improved travel comfort, shorter journey times, and a greener alternative to driving or flying between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. For Singaporeans, the ETS3 project is particularly significant as it will eventually enhance cross-border rail connectivity.
Sultan Ibrahim’s Railway Legacy
Sultan Ibrahim is no stranger to the railway world. In 2010, he earned a place in the Malaysia Book of Records as the first Sultan to hold a Class 26 High-Powered Locomotive Driving Licence. During the Kembara Mahkota Johor programme that year, he drove a train over a distance of nearly 400 kilometres in just three days.
He even mastered technical procedures such as operating a locomotive turntable, successfully rotating an 86-tonne engine at Gemas Station within 10 minutes. Just last week, the King test-drove the ETS2 service between Kuala Lumpur and Rawang, further cementing his reputation as Malaysia’s “royal railwayman.”
ETS3: Boosting Southern Connectivity
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has confirmed that two sets of ETS3 Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) have been undergoing trials. If testing proceeds smoothly, full operations are expected to begin later this month, with Johor Bahru Sentral set to become a major hub.
The ETS3 line is part of the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project, a long-anticipated development aimed at reducing congestion and boosting economic growth along the southern corridor. With enhanced efficiency and reliability, the project will not only benefit Malaysian commuters but also support future integration with Singapore’s transport system — a move that could reshape travel between the two countries.
For many observers, Sultan Ibrahim’s symbolic act of taking the controls represents not only his personal passion but also Malaysia’s commitment to modern rail infrastructure as a driver of connectivity and regional growth.
Image Source: Bernama