ETS to JB Sentral ‘On Track’, But Not Quite There Yet

Train commuters hoping to ride the Electric Train Service (ETS) all the way to Johor Bahru will need to hold on a little longer. Despite earlier hopes for an August launch, the southern stretch of the line particularly from Kluang to JB Sentral still has significant work left to complete.

A recent inspection by The Star along the 180km alignment between Segamat and JB Sentral revealed that key electrification and signalling infrastructure are still unfinished. The 100KM stretch between Kluang and Johor Bahru, in particular, remains a major bottleneck.

In some areas near JB Sentral, only basic pole structures have been erected. The critical catenary system, which includes contact wires and other components of the overhead line equipment (OHLE) is still missing in several sections.

Experts say installing, testing, and commissioning this OHLE system is a time-consuming process that includes multiple steps such as tensioning, energisation, and safety checks.

While the full 192KM stretch from Gemas to JB was initially touted to be ready this year, progress appears slower than expected. ETS services from Gemas to Segamat began operations back in March, but no tickets beyond Segamat have been offered since.

In response to growing public concern, KTMB has issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to completing the southern ETS expansion. The rail operator stressed that the rollout is being done in phases and is still on track, pending technical and regulatory milestones.

KTMB said trial runs are currently underway on the next stretch between Segamat and Kluang. If all goes well, this segment could be opened next, possibly using existing ETS train sets, provided regulatory approvals come through.

In the background, KTMB is also testing new ETS train sets from China. The first of these, known as the “golden train,” must log at least 8,000 fault-free kilometres before it can enter commercial service, a standard requirement to ensure system integrity.

Source: Star & MalayMail