Govt Plans To Double KTM Fleet By Spending RM10.7 Billion To Lease Trains From China

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Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the payments will be stretched across 30 years, reported FMT.

"The actual cost will be finalised after completion of negotiations with the government of China in the near future," Loke said today, 14 August.

Of the 62 passenger trains, 36 are electric multiple unit (EMU) three-car sets, 12 are EMU six-car sets, and 14 are diesel multiple unit (DMU) six-car sets, reported the New Straits Times.

The new trains will add to KTMB's rotation and aim to increase track utilisation to 45% by 2027.

The leasing costs will include the train suppliers' maintenance, repair, and operations services.

In a press conference at his ministry today, Loke said the government has invested billions of ringgit in rail services, but utilisation currently only stands at 30%.

He expressed hope that this lease agreement with China will enhance the availability and reliability of the trains and increase usage, reported the New Straits Times.

"Our rail tracks can actually accommodate more trains, but we don't have enough coaches.

"I know, some commuters complain that they have to wait for an hour for KTM trains, while the KL-North Electric Train Service (ETS) tickets are usually sold out on weekends," he said.

KTMB, a government-owned company, operates three suburban lines in the Klang Valley: the Seremban Line, the Port Klang Line, and the Skypark Link.

Additionally, it offers two intercity services: ETS and KTM Intercity.