Kuala Lumpur: The government plans to introduce a direct cargo rail service between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to enhance trade between Malaysia and Thailand, while supporting deeper ASEAN economic integration. Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the proposal has received approval from the Cabinet and has the full backing of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with the service expected to commence later this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, as the current ASEAN Chair, Malaysia is committed to boosting intra-regional trade. The proposed Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok rail link is also expected to improve connectivity with other countries, including Laos, China, and Central Asia. Loke emphasized the necessity of close cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand, highlighting his recent productive visit to Bangkok and positive discussions with Thailand’s Transport Minister, who also serves as the Deputy Prime Minister.
Loke shared these details with reporters after attending a hi-tea event where he presented RM225,000 in incentives to 219 outstanding SPM 2024 students in the Seremban parliamentary constituency. He also addressed efforts to revive the direct passenger rail service between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, suggesting that the initiative could become a valuable tourism product, attracting visitors and supporting the sector’s growth.
Loke explained that the passenger rail service offers an affordable alternative to flying, with the journey taking 15 to 16 hours and providing scenic views of rural areas, creating a memorable travel experience. He expressed confidence that this mode of transport would appeal to many tourists, particularly those from Europe who could travel seamlessly between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
Furthermore, Loke mentioned that the service could be implemented quickly using existing railway tracks connecting Bangkok, Padang Besar, Butterworth, and Kuala Lumpur. He has tasked Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) with preparing for the launch of the Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok service within three months.