Termination of KTM Ekspres Selatan Train Service effective 1 January 2026
KTM Berhad has announced that the Ekspres Selatan train service operating on the JB Sentral – Gemas route will officially cease operations on 1 January 2026. The announcement was made on 29 December 2025, marking the end of more than 9.5 years of service for passengers travelling within the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia.
Ekspres Selatan evolved from the Shuttle 61/62 which once ran between Gemas and Woodlands CIQ. Ekspres Selatan was created out of necessity due to the split of ETS services on the newer electrified double track sectors and KTM Intercity services on the older non-electrified single track sectors, forcing commuters to change trains at Gemas to travel between southern destinations and the cities on the electrified double track sectors including Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and Padang Besar.
Currently, six Ekspres Selatan services—Train Numbers 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46—are in operation, all of which will be discontinued from 1 January 2026.
Reason for the Service Termination
KTMB explained that the decision forms part of a broader realignment and optimisation of passenger rail services along the southern corridor. This move is closely linked to the progress and readiness of infrastructure under the Gemas–Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project.
The transition aims to ensure a more efficient, integrated and passenger-focused rail network, while improving overall travel experience through modern infrastructure and services.
Full ETS Service to JB Sentral
At the same time, KTMB reassured passengers that travel demand in the southern sector will continue to be well supported. From 1 January 2026, Electric Train Service (ETS) operations will be fully extended to JB Sentral, offering 10 daily services.
With the enhancement of ETS services to Johor Bahru, passengers can expect:
- Faster and more efficient journey times
- A modern, user-friendly travel experience
- Environmentally friendly electric trains
- Enhanced safety and comfort
This development represents a significant upgrade to rail connectivity in the south.
Other KTM Intercity Train Services Remain Unaffected
KTMB confirmed that the Ekspres Rakyat Timuran operating between JB Sentral and Tumpat, and the the Shuttle Timuran DMU operating in sections between Gemas and Tumpat, will continue as usual. This service remains a key travel option for passengers journeying between the southern region and the east coast.
Appreciation to Passengers
Ir. Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin, Chief Technical Officer and Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of KTMB, expressed heartfelt appreciation to loyal passengers:
“KTMB extends its highest gratitude to all passengers and loyal users of the Southern Express for their continuous support throughout its years of operation.
Every journey, memory and moment shared with the Southern Express will always remain close to the hearts of the KTMB family. We welcome the public to continue choosing and supporting KTMB as a safe, comfortable and reliable public transport option.”
– Ir. Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin, Chief Technical Officer and Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of KTMB
Travel Advice for Passengers
KTMB advises all passengers to check the latest train schedules through its official channels and to plan journeys in advance using authorised ticketing platforms. Assistance is also available via the KTMB Call Centre.
For further enquiries, passengers may contact KTMB Call Centre at 03-9779 1200 or follow updates through KTMB’s official social media channels.