ETS KL Sentral to JB: Schedule, Info & Facilities

The ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru train service has transformed intercity travel between Malaysia's capital and southern gateway. This modern rail connection offers a comfortable, efficient alternative to the congested North-South Expressway, completing the 330-kilometer journey in approximately 4.5-5 hours, significantly faster than the previous 5–7 hours by car or bus.

Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or connecting to Singapore, the train Kuala Lumpur to Johor provides a stress-free travel option with modern amenities and competitive pricing.

Key Takeaways:

• ETS KL to JB tickets start from RM82 one way for Standard Class, while Business Class typically costs around RM150 to RM170.
• The train departs from KL Sentral and arrives at JB Sentral in Johor Bahru city centre.
• The ETS journey from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours.
• Tickets can be booked through the official KTMB website, the KiTS Mobile App, or platforms such as Easybook and 12Go Asia.

Source: KTM 

ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru Launch Date

The ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru service officially commenced passenger operations on December 12, 2025. His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, launched the service at a ceremony in Kempas Baru on December 11, 2025, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in attendance. 

This launch completed the 192-kilometer Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Project that began in 2017, creating an unbroken modern rail corridor from Padang Besar to JB Sentral along Malaysia's west coast.

The service operates with modern KTM 94 Class EMU (ETS3) trains featuring six coaches that seat 312 passengers, with five standard-class coaches and one business-class coach. Initial operations in December 2025 offered four daily trips, with plans to expand to 12 daily services beginning January 2026, comprising eight KL-JB routes, two Johor Bahru-Padang Besar routes, and two Johor Bahru-Butterworth routes.

Source: KTM

ETS KL-JB Journey Duration

The ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru completes the journey in 4.5-5 hours. Currently, there are four daily services, two schedules include departures from KL Sentral at 7:45 AM and 5:35 PM, and two from JB Sentral at 8:40 AM and 4:20 PM. 

Starting January 1, 2026, the first KL departure will shift to 7:55 AM.

Why You Should Take the KL-JB ETS

• Express buses from JB to KL  cost RM35-60 but take 5-6 hours with traffic delays.
• Flights from JB to KL start around RM150-300 but require airport transfers and security processing. 
• Driving costs approximately RM150-210 (fuel and tolls) plus driver fatigue. 

KL to JB ETS Ticket Prices

The six-coach train features standard and business-class coaches, on-board dining, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a prayer room.

• Standard Class

Tickets for the ETS KL to JB start from RM82 for adults one-way. Children aged 4-11 receive approximately 50% discount, while children under 4 travel free when not occupying a seat. Senior citizens aged 60 and above and students with valid ID are eligible for discounted rates.

• Business Class

ETS KL to JB priced at RM150-170 for the full journey, business class offers significantly enhanced comfort including exclusive Ruby Lounge access at KL Sentral, wider seats with greater recline, personal entertainment systems, complimentary meals and snacks (coffee, muffins, snack boxes), and a quieter cabin environment.

ETS KL JB Launch Promotion

KTMB offered a 30% discount for travel between December 12, 2025, and January 11, 2026, using promo code "JBBEST", limited to the first 5,000 redemptions.

ETS Pickup and Dropoff Locations in KL and JB

1. Kuala Lumpur Departure Point

KL Sentral serves as the primary departure station, Malaysia's largest transit hub connecting LRT, MRT, KTM Komuter, and KLIA Express services. Business class passengers access the Ruby Lounge one floor above Platform 2. Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure for comfortable boarding.

2. Johor Bahru Arrival Point

The train Kuala Lumpur to Johor terminates at JB Sentral in the city center, which connects directly to the Singapore CIQ complex for cross-border travel. The station offers comprehensive facilities including food courts, money changers, and ground transportation options (taxis, Grab, buses). 

The upcoming RTS Link (expected early 2027) will connect JB Sentral to Singapore's Woodlands North in approximately 5 minutes. Until then, travelers must cross the border by road or use the existing shuttle service between JB Sentral and Woodlands, Singapore.

3. Intermediate Stops

There are 16 stop points from KL to JB ETS. The ETS KL to JB starts at

• KL Sentral (Start Station)
• Bandar Tasik Selatan
• Kajang
• Seremban
• Pulau Sebang
• Batang Melaka
• Gemas
• Segamat
• Labis
• Bekok
• Paloh
• Kluang
• Renggam
• Layang-Layang
• Kulai
• Kempas Baru
• JB Sentral (Final Station)

How to Buy ETS Tickets

1. Online Booking

Purchase tickets through the official KTMB website or KiTS Mobile App (iOS/Android). Bookings are available approximately 30 days in advance. You'll receive a booking reference and e-ticket via email for digital or printed presentation at boarding. Third-party platforms like Easybook and 12Go Asia also offer ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru tickets.

2. Counter and Kiosks

Ticket counters and self-service kiosks are available at major stations including KL Sentral and JB Sentral. Counter purchases help travelers needing documentation for concessions or specific accessibility assistance.

Refunds: Cancellations must be submitted at ETS ticket counters at least two hours before departure with printed ticket or reference and identification. Refund rates vary based on cancellation timing, with earlier cancellations receiving better refund amounts.

Source: KTM

What to Expect On Board the ETS Train

The six-coach train features standard and business-class coaches, on-board dining, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a prayer room.

• Seating Comfort 

Standard class features 2-2 seating configuration with adjustable backrests, footrests, and tray tables. Business class offers more spacious seating with greater recline, personal entertainment systems, charging capabilities, and individual reading lights in a quieter, exclusive environment.

• Air Conditioning

Cabin air-conditioning is aggressive, with temperatures reported at 16-20°C. Bring warm clothing including a jacket or sweater, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes. This is the most consistent advice from early passengers.

• Scenic Views

Large windows provide views of Malaysian countryside including palm oil plantations, rural villages, and diverse terrain from urban KL through agricultural Johor to the developed southern region.

• Facilities

Toilets are located at coach ends, with business class having dedicated facilities at the front of the cabin. Extra luggage racks are available in Coaches A and F, with generous overhead storage throughout.

• Dining

Business class receives complimentary meals including coffee, muffins, snack boxes, and even earphones for entertainment systems. Coach C features a dedicated dining area with bar tables. Standard class passengers should bring their own refreshments, though some trains offer cafeteria or trolley services.

 

Travel Tips for a Smooth ETS Journey

1. Book in Advance 

Tickets sell out quickly for popular times, especially weekends, holidays, and festive periods. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for better availability and seat selection. Window seats offer scenic views while aisle seats provide easier movement.

2. Dress Warmly

The air-conditioning is very cold. Pack layers including a jacket, sweater, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes distinctly different from older services where heat was the concern.

3. Bring Entertainment

Download movies, e-books, music, or work documents before departure as Wi-Fi may be inconsistent. Pack headphones and a portable battery pack to keep devices charged throughout the 4-5 hour journey.

4. Arrive Early

Reach your departure station 30-45 minutes before departure to locate your platform, access the Ruby Lounge if traveling business class, and board comfortably. Keep your ticket accessible as it's needed both to enter the station and exit at your destination.

5. Plan Onward Travel

Both stations offer taxis, Grab, and local buses. Singapore-bound travelers from JB Sentral should allow 30 minutes to 2 hours for immigration clearance depending on time and day. Have passports and required documents easily accessible.

6. Monitor Updates

Check KTMB's official channels for service updates, schedule changes, or announcements before travel as this newly launched service may evolve. Service frequency is expected to increase from January 2026.

 

Conclusion

The ETS Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru represents a transformative advancement in Malaysian intercity travel, offering modern comfort, competitive journey times, and excellent value for both business and leisure travelers. Planning ahead with early booking, dressing warmly for cold cabin temperatures, and arranging onward transportation ensures a smooth journey on the ETS KL to JB.

Once you arrive in Johor Bahru, reliable ground transportation can make your trip much smoother. Rent a car in JB Sentral with JohorBook, featuring comfortable vehicles and professional drivers for airport transfers and city tours. Stopping at other stations in Johor? Worry not, we provide flexible pickup options in Johor. Contact Johorbook today to arrange your ground transportation and explore Johor in comfort and style!