The long-awaited Kuala Lumpur (KL)–Bangkok Direct Train is set to return to rails soon as Malaysia and Thailand prepare to relaunch cross-border service using existing rail infrastructure, marking a significant step forward for travel and trade relations between the two countries.
Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook confirmed that both countries are working hard to revive the KL–Bangkok Direct Train this year. The planned route will connect the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur to the Thai capital Bangkok via the cities of Butterworth and Padang Besar. This direct link will offer passengers a seamless train journey without the need for transfers.
KTM and SRT Working to Complete Preparations
Malaysian railway company Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have around three months to complete the necessary preparations for the restart. What is remarkable about this initiative is that it does not require the construction of new railway lines. Instead, the focus is on joint planning between the railway companies of both countries, coordination of marketing strategies and the creation of integrated ticketing systems. This approach increases the potential for the project to be implemented in a relatively short time frame.
During his one-day working visit to Thailand, Malaysian Transport Minister Loke held an important meeting with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit. One of the main agenda items of the meeting was the revival of the Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok direct rail line. Minister Loke also visited the Bang Sue Central Terminal, which has become the hub of modern railway transportation in Bangkok, and made detailed observations of Thailand's high-speed railway system.
KL–Bangkok Direct Train Promises Economic and Tourism Vitality
The resumption of the Kuala Lumpur–Bangkok Direct Train is expected to significantly boost tourism and trade between the two countries. Travelers will be able to enjoy a comfortable and seamless train journey between Malaysia and Thailand without the hassle of making multiple transfers. This will be an attractive option, especially for tourists looking to explore the region.
Authorities believe that this cooperation could significantly increase human mobility and economic activity between the two countries. Regional travelers, as well as business people and those engaged in commercial activities, could benefit significantly from the restored direct rail link. Easier and more direct transportation could contribute to the development of trade relations and economic growth.
Proposal to Extend Railway Line to Border Towns
Thai authorities have also put forward a proposal to extend rail services beyond the existing rail network, which would extend rail services from Sungai Golok in Thailand to the Malaysian towns of Rantau Panjang and Pasir Mas. Malaysian Transport Minister Loke welcomed the idea, noting the economic and social development potential of communities in border areas. Strengthening cross-border rail links could help increase trade and human mobility in these areas.
However, Minister Loke noted that repairing these old railway lines would take time. “Track repair is necessary before service can resume,” Loke explained, stressing that these lines, which have been out of use for a long time, need to be extensively modernized to meet current operational safety and comfort standards. These repairs and upgrades are critical to ensuring passengers can travel safely and comfortably.
With this joint project, Malaysia and Thailand aim to strengthen their cross-border infrastructure and deepen regional economic integration. Once operational again, the Kuala Lumpur–Bangkok Direct Train could become a significant symbol that could give new impetus to Southeast Asia’s transportation development. This project could also serve as an inspiring example for other countries in the region to collaborate on cross-border transportation.
