KL - Bangkok Direct Train Service

KL - Bangkok direct train service is planned to be reinstated by Malaysia and Thailand later this year(2025), according to Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

He mentioned that the service could be introduced quickly as it would use the existing railway lines connecting Bangkok, Padang Besar, Butterworth, and Kuala Lumpur. Loke explained that Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTM) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have been given three months to prepare for the resumption of the train service between the two cities.

This revival doesn't require new tracks but will involve coordination, joint marketing, and shared ticketing systems between both countries. Loke also highlighted the need to restore the railway link between Sungai Golok, Rantau Panjang, and Pasir Mas due to the long-unused condition of the tracks in these areas.

Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) Train Station Filepic

During his recent one-day visit to Thailand on May 2, Loke met with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister, Suriya Juangroongruangkit. He also visited the Bang Sue Central Terminal and received a briefing on Thailand's high-speed rail development.

Additionally, Loke shared that Thai authorities had proposed extending the rail services from Sungai Golok to Rantau Panjang and Pasir Mas in Malaysia. He welcomed this idea, viewing it as a positive move that could potentially boost the local economy and improve livelihoods in the border region. Time will be needed however to get ready for the revival of the railway connection between Sungai Golok, Rantau Panjang, and Pasir Mas due to the necessary track restoration on the long-dormant railway lines in Rantau Panjang and Sungai Golok.

The introduction of the KL–Bangkok Direct Train is anticipated to boost tourism and trade. Passengers will enjoy a smooth rail trip between Malaysia and Thailand without needing to change trains multiple times. Authorities believe this partnership could greatly enhance mobility and economic interaction between the two nations. Both regional travelers and businesses are expected to benefit from the renewed rail link.

State Railways of Thailand (SRT) Train Station Filepic