Trains in Malaysia

KTM Berhad runs the main passenger trains in peninsular Malaysia. The west coast line links Kuala Lumpur with Ipoh, Butterworth (for Penang) and Padang Besar on the Thai border, and the electric ETS trains are the quick and comfortable choice.

OperatorKTM Berhad (Keretapi Tanah Melayu)
CurrencyMalaysian ringgit (MYR)
Main hubKuala Lumpur: KL Sentral
TicketsReservations are needed on long-distance trains. Komuter commuter trains need no booking.

Main lines and journeys

West coast line
Johor Bahru, Gemas, Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Butterworth and Padang Besar, with a link to Thailand at the border.
Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh and Butterworth
The busiest intercity corridor, served by frequent ETS trains.
East coast line
The Jungle Railway from Gemas through Kuala Lipis to Tumpat near Kota Bharu, a slow and scenic ride.
Penang
Trains stop at Butterworth on the mainland. Penang island is a short ferry or road trip away.

Train types and classes

ETS Gold
Electric express trains with standard class seating.
ETS Platinum
Electric express trains, with standard and business class on some services.
ETS Silver
Earlier-generation ETS trains with standard class seating.
Intercity
Longer-distance trains, including overnight services with sleeper berths.
Komuter
Local trains around Kuala Lumpur and other cities. Buy tickets at the station on the day.

Travel tips

Popular routes in Malaysia

Gemas → Kuala Lumpur10 trains · timetable & fares
Ipoh → Kuala Lumpur9 trains · timetable & fares
Johor Bahru → Kuala Lumpur9 trains · timetable & fares
Kuala Lumpur → Ipoh9 trains · timetable & fares
Kuala Lumpur → Johor Bahru9 trains · timetable & fares
Gemas → Johor Bahru8 trains · timetable & fares
See Malaysia timetables Station map

Written in October 2026. Services, timetables and fares change, so check the live timetable for your travel date before you book.