In an effort to promote increased use of trains amidst surging fuel costs, Malaysia has implemented a 30% fare reduction on weekdays for its Electric Train Service and Ekspres Rakyat Timuran routes. This incentive is applicable for journeys between Johor Bahru Central and Tumpat in Kelantan, beginning from Wednesday, as announced by Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
The KTM Shuttle Tebrau, which operates between Singapore and Malaysia, is not included in this discount scheme. The move is in line with the government’s objective to establish rail as the main mode of transport while concurrently lowering commuting costs.
The discounted fares will be accessible from Monday to Thursday, excluding school holidays and public holidays. To avail of the discount, passengers are required to purchase tickets utilizing a promotional code. This code will be announced by the national rail operator, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad, between April 15 and 30, valid for travel from April 15 to October 14. However, these discounted rates will not be applicable for business and first-class passengers.
The Electric Rail Link service is also encompassed by this initiative, with two new monthly passes offering up to 90% discounts. Civil servants residing or working in Putrajaya, as well as Malaysians employed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2, are eligible for these passes.
The stakes of fluctuating prices are high due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, a concern which the Malaysian government has raised with its citizens. Home Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail voiced the government’s primary challenge – preparing the public to accept the impending economic hardships.
The government’s main priority is to protect the welfare of Malaysians and shield them from the full brunt of external economic shocks, whilst maintaining economic stability. Simultaneously, he highlighted potential risks such as disruptions to energy supplies and escalating costs.
Despite being one of the largest oil and gas producers in the Asia-Pacific region and the world’s fifth largest exporter of liquefied natural gas in 2023, Malaysia continues to be significantly dependent on fossil fuels like coal for electricity generation.
What is the purpose of the fare discount?
The fare discount aims to promote the increased use of trains amidst rising fuel costs and make rail the main mode of transport in Malaysia.
Who can avail of the fare discount?
Passengers travelling between Monday and Thursday, excluding school and public holidays, on the Electric Train Service and Ekspres Rakyat Timuran routes can avail of the fare discount. However, it does not apply to business and first-class passengers.
What are the potential risks of the Middle East conflicts to Malaysia?
The potential risks include disruptions to energy supplies and rising costs, which could have significant impacts on the Malaysian economy and its citizens.
