ASEAN 2025: Rapid Rail Steps Up With More Trains, Safety Upgrades

Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd (Rapid KL) is gearing up to handle the expected commuter rush during the ASEAN Summit 2025, with plans to add more trains and extend peak-hour operations from Oct 26 to 28.

Acting chief executive officer Nor Azmi Mohd Yusof said the company is reviewing its schedules to keep trains running smoothly despite major road closures around KLCC and other key areas during the event.

“We will operate as usual during the ASEAN Summit, but are aware that several main routes will be closed. If needed, Rapid KL will deploy additional trains and extend peak-hour frequency to accommodate passengers,” he told Bernama.

With traffic expected to be heavy, the public is being encouraged to use public transport throughout the summit period.

Nor Azmi said the company had recently strengthened its rail network, with 27 new train sets added to the Kelana Jaya Line and automatic platform gates (APG) fully installed on the KL Monorail Line last Dec.

For the Ampang and Kelana Jaya lines, the tender process for APG installation is underway, with work expected to start by the end of the year and completed within 16 months.

“These two lines are the only ones without automatic platform gates. We have begun installing temporary barriers covering up to 70% of the platform area to reduce the risk of passengers falling,” Nor Azmi noted.

Rapid KL is also reviewing feeder bus routes and coordinating with police to ensure smooth movement during the summit.

The company aims to reach 1.35 million daily passengers by Dec, supported by better crisis management training and stronger coordination through Incident Commanders during service disruptions.