KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 12 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's new double-tracked electrified rail line between Gemas and Johor Bahru officially opened to the public on Friday, forming a continuous electrified connection from the capital Kuala Lumpur to the southern state of Johor.
At several of the newly opened stations, many residents arrived early, eager to experience the upgraded service. A local commuter noted that the rail sections from Kuala Lumpur northwards and southwards to Gemas had long been electrified.
With the remaining stretches between Gemas and Johor Bahru progressively completed throughout this year, the full opening of the route will greatly improve travel convenience, reducing the need for long drives or reliance on slower diesel-powered trains.
"It's very comfortable, and much easier than driving," local journalist H. Hassan said, noting that while the northern Electric Train Service (ETS) routes have been in service for many years, the public had long been waiting for the southern section to be fully completed. "People have been hoping for this for a long time," he said.
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), the operator of the line, said in a recent statement that with year-end travel demand on the rise, the new service will significantly enhance mobility for residents traveling to and from Kuala Lumpur. Passengers will also be able to make onward connections in Kuala Lumpur to destinations across Malaysia's northern region and the east coast.
At an event held on Thursday to mark the project's completion, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the completion of the ETS line marks a key milestone for the country as it represents a significant infrastructure project that will positively impact ordinary people.
He was joined by Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Anwar said the development of a modern transport network would serve as a key catalyst for local economic growth with integrated planning along the tracks incorporating economic centers, commercial areas, food stalls, housing and various public facilities.
"Each ETS station will be developed strategically to create new growth areas, thus boosting economic activities and increasing job opportunities for the local residents," Anwar said.
For his part, Loke said the next phase of the ETS will connect Johor Bahru to Padang Besar, a key point along the Malaysia-Thai border in Perlis state, which will further enhance the integration and accessibility of the country's rail network: "It will improve the way of life for people and encourage the use of public transport," he added. ■