The long-awaited ETS extension to Johor Bahru is finally becoming a reality, with Malaysia officially confirming that the Kuala Lumpur–Johor Bahru ETS route will begin operating on 12 December 2025. This marks a historic upgrade for South Malaysia’s rail network, giving JB residents and Singapore commuters a faster, smoother and more convenient travel option compared to driving or taking domestic flights. The ETS3 line connects JB Sentral directly to KL Sentral, cutting travel time to as short as 3.5 hours and providing multiple services daily under Silver, Gold, Platinum and Express categories. The extension completes the southern link of Malaysia’s West Coast Electric Train system, bringing major improvements to accessibility, tourism and long-distance travel.
The new ETS route is expected to significantly boost Johor Bahru’s economic activity, particularly around JB Sentral, CIQ, and the upcoming RTS Link. Better connectivity will attract more tourists, business travellers, and property investors who favour locations with strong transport links. With the ETS and RTS operating side by side, JB becomes one of Malaysia’s best-connected cities, offering seamless travel between Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. This connectivity is also expected to increase rental demand and improve long-term capital appreciation potential for properties located within 5km of JB Sentral.
From a lifestyle standpoint, the JB–KL ETS offers a comfortable alternative to long highway journeys, reducing travel fatigue and improving travel reliability during peak seasons. Passengers can enjoy air-conditioned coaches, onboard amenities, and smooth rail travel without worrying about traffic jams, accidents, or weather disruptions. The route also enhances connectivity for intermediate towns such as Kluang, Segamat, and Gemas, opening new growth opportunities and improving mobility for residents throughout Johor.
Analysts expect strong early demand for ETS tickets as travellers rush to experience the new service. As more data becomes available on pricing and train frequency, residents and investors will be able to better plan long-distance travel between Johor and Kuala Lumpur. The ETS complements other major infrastructure catalysts such as the RTS Link, Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD), and ongoing highway upgrades, further positioning Johor Bahru as a rising regional hub for business, tourism and real estate investment.
For property buyers and investors, the ETS launch reinforces the attractiveness of JB city projects such as R&F Princess Cove, TriTower, Suasana, The Astaka, Coronation Square, Summer Suites, and upcoming mixed-use developments near the CIQ–RTS corridor. Improved connectivity is known to raise property values, increase rental yields, and attract cross-border tenants who prioritise transportation convenience. As Johor’s urban landscape transforms into a multi-transport mega-hub, the ETS is expected to contribute to a new wave of demand from both Malaysian and Singapore-based investors.
