Travellers may soon have a fresh way to journey between Malaysia and Thailand, as plans are underway to revive the direct train service linking Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. This long-distance rail connection, once a popular overland option, is set to make a return, offering a scenic and leisurely alternative to air travel.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that Malaysia and Thailand are currently working closely to restore the cross-border route, which makes use of existing railway tracks stretching from Bangkok to Padang Besar, Butterworth, and down to Kuala Lumpur. The revival effort focuses not on building new infrastructure, but rather on harmonising operations between the two nations railway providers, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTM) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).

According to a report by Bernama, both KTM and SRT have been given a three-month window to complete initial preparations. These include synchronising train operations, launching joint promotional efforts, and developing an integrated ticketing system to simplify the travel experience for passengers.

If everything proceeds smoothly, the reinstated train service could be ready to roll out by the end of the year.

Loke shared these updates during his recent working visit to Thailand, where he met with Thailands Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister, Suriya Juangroongruangkit. The two toured the Bang Sue Central Terminal in Bangkok, a major hub within Thailand's rapidly growing rail network and a potential key connection point for the revived service.

During the visit, Loke also expressed support for Thailand's proposal to restart train services between Sungai Golok and Malaysia's east coast towns of Rantau Panjang and Pasir Mas in Kelantan. However, he noted that this project would require more time, as the tracks on the Malaysian side have long been inactive and would need significant rehabilitation.

Once operational, the Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok train line could emerge as a novel travel option for tourists and commuters alike, not only bridging two major Southeast Asian capitals but also helping to revitalise smaller towns along the route and boost bilateral tourism.

Source: Bernama