Railways in Malaysia began to be built during the colonial period in the mid-19th century. The first line opened in Penang in 1883 and was later expanded to other parts of the country. Railways have become an important means of transporting agricultural products and minerals and transporting people.
In the 20th century, railways continued to be an important part of the Malaysian economy. After independence, the government invested in modernizing and expanding the railway network. In the 1990s, the rail network began to be electrified, enabling a faster and more efficient service.
Today, Malaysia has one of the most extensive railway networks in Southeast Asia. There is an extensive network of lines connecting the country's main cities, and there are also connections to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Singapore. Malaysian railways remain an important mode of transportation for both passengers and freight.
Some important milestones in the historical development of Malaysian railways are:
- 1883: The first railway line opened in Penang.
- 1901: Federated Malay States Railways (FMSR) was established.
- 1920s: FMSR built a network of lines connecting the country's main cities.
- 1963: Following Malaysia's independence, FMSR was renamed Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB).
- 1990s: KTMB started electrifying the railway network.
- 2000s: KTMB invested in new trains and stations.
- 2010s: KTMB began developing high-speed railway lines.
Malaysian railways have played an important role in the country's history and economy. Today, railways remain an important form of transportation and continue to contribute to the development of the country.
