Routes, Tickets, Tips, And Travel Times

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If you’ve never taken the Electric Train Service (ETS), you should probably give it a try

Operated by KTM Berhad, the ETS has become one of the fastest and most popular ways to travel across Peninsular Malaysia. Linking Gemas in the south to Padang Besar at the Thai border, with major stops in Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Butterworth, the ETS is favoured by both locals and tourists.

Whether it’s a weekend food trip to Ipoh, a business meeting in Penang, or crossing into Thailand, the train offers a smooth, affordable, and scenic alternative to driving or flying.

The ETS is among Malaysia’s fastest land travel options

ETS trains reach speeds of up to 160km/h, making them significantly faster than buses or cars on highways. Typical travel times are:

• The trip from KL Sentral to Ipoh takes about 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Travelling from KL Sentral to Butterworth takes around 4 hours.
• A journey from KL Sentral to Padang Besar takes about 5 hours 30 minutes.

For cross-border travellers, Padang Besar station includes both Malaysian and Thai immigration facilities, allowing passengers to continue into Hat Yai and beyond without leaving the station.

Visit KTM Berhad’s official website for more information on all the routes available for the ETS.

Here’s a closer look at when and how you should buy your tickets

ETS tickets usually go on sale 30 days ahead, though during major holidays like Hari Raya or Chinese New Year, KTM may release them earlier, sometimes up to 60 days.

It’s best to book at least two weeks in advance to secure your preferred train, especially for peak travel periods.

Tickets can be purchased online through the KTMB Mobile app, the KTM website, or at counters and kiosks in major stations.

Ticket classes vary depending on speed and comfort

If you didn’t know it yet, There are different categories of tickets to choose from depending on your budget and comfort. Here’s the main difference between them:

• Silver is the most affordable, but stops at more stations.
• Gold offers fewer stops and a quicker ride.
• Platinum is faster with limited stops and priority boarding.
• Business or Express class is available on selected trains, featuring wider seats, extra legroom, and meals served at your seat.

For those longer journeys, it’s definitely recommended to go for Platinum class or higher if you have the budget for it. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the whole trip much more!

How much are ETS tickets?

Fares vary by class and route. For example, a one-way ticket from KL Sentral to Padang Besar could cost you RM91 to RM153, as seen above.

Do note that ticket prices can be higher during holiday and festive seasons.

Children under 4 years old can travel on the ETS train for free, but they must sit with a parent or guardian and will not get a reserved seat.

Discounted fares are also available for children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. If you’re a student, you can also apply for a KTMB Student Concession to get a 40% discount. Learn more about it here.

What you should know before boarding the train

Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure for ticket and security checks. Stations like KL Sentral and Butterworth can get crowded, so allowing extra time makes boarding smoother.

Each passenger may bring two medium-sized bags and one smaller bag. Larger luggage can be stored in compartments within each coach, which is useful for tourists carrying big suitcases.

In terms of facilities, you can expect comfort and convenience

ETS trains are fully air-conditioned and equipped with facilities to make the journey pleasant.

A bistro coach serves snacks, drinks, and simple meals, while a prayer room (surau) is available for Muslim passengers. Clean restrooms are provided in every coach, and some newer trains include infant changing tables.

Most seats have power sockets to keep devices charged, and Business class coaches feature a 2+1 seat layout with extra legroom. For added security, all coaches are fitted with CCTV cameras.

These amenities make it easy to nap, snack, or work during the ride. For tourists, the combination of comfort and convenience often makes the ETS a better option than budget flights, since there are no long check-ins or baggage restrictions.

You can learn more about the various facilities and features offered here.

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