Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is strategically positioned to become a leading rail nation in ASEAN through strategic collaborations, investments, technological advancements, and continuous talent development. Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah emphasized the country's rail agenda during his speech at the International Rail Transit Forum (IRTF) 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia's rail development agenda is guided by the National Transport Policy 2019-2030 and aims to build an efficient, integrated, sustainable, and resilient transport ecosystem. The agenda aligns with the aspirations of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), focusing on enhancing the role of rail in economic growth, trade facilitation, urban mobility, and community connectivity.
The government's Road to Rail initiative seeks to increase the share of rail in passenger and freight transportation, fostering a balanced and sustainable transport system. This shift is expected to alleviate road congestion, improve logistics efficiency, and bolster the country's long-term economic competitiveness.
Hasbi highlighted several major rail projects currently underway, including the Penang LRT Mutiara Line, the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link. These projects aim to enhance urban mobility, strengthen regional connectivity, and open new avenues for trade, logistics, and investment.
The Deputy Minister reiterated the commitment to strengthening Malaysia's rail industry through localization initiatives, technology transfer, research collaboration, and human capital development. The establishment of the National Rail Centre of Excellence, led by the Malaysia Rail Development Corporation (MRDC), is set to foster industry development, talent nurturing, and innovation across the rail value chain.
The IRTF 2026, themed 'The Great Shift: Paving the Road to Rail Excellence', serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the rail sector.