KUALA LUMPUR: The Electric Train Service (ETS3) extension to Johor Baru is proceeding as planned and has not been delayed, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke, dismissing recent media reports suggesting otherwise.
"The media report claiming a delay is inaccurate. I have stated clearly, months ago, that the ETS3 project will be implemented in phases.
"It is not a delay, this was always the plan," he told the media at the Asean-China International Rail Transit Forum 2025 here, today.
Loke said the first phase of ETS3, which extends the rail service from Gemas to Segamat, is already operational.
The second phase, which extends the service to Kluang, is scheduled to begin operations before August 31, while the final phase to Johor Baru Sentral is expected to be completed by the end of this year, he said.
In addition, Loke said the ministry is currently preparing to launch the second phase of the ETS3 project, with the Kluang station fully ready and new trains having successfully completed their testing.
"I am still waiting for the official announcement that we will launch the service to Kluang before August 31.
"However, the schedule has not been finalised yet because I am arranging for a "very important person" to drive this first ride," he added.
Recently, several media reports have suggested that the ETS3 project would face delays, raising public concern over the timeline for the extension to Johor Baru.
A local media agency reported that an inspection along the 180km alignment from Segamat to JB Sentral recently found that it is impossible for ETS services to reach the southern city anytime this quarter, as significant electrification and signalling works remain incomplete, especially along the 100km stretch between Kluang and JB Sentral.
"At the section near Johor Baru, the catenary system is still incomplete, with contact wires and other critical components of the overhead line equipment (OHLE) yet to be installed," it said.
In July, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) announced the suspension of its advance ticket sales beyond December, apologising that it will not be offering January 2026 tickets anytime soon. It typically opens ticket sales up to six months in advance.
