Quiet towns in Johor are experiencing a shift as the new Electric Train Service (ETS) begins to draw visitors and economic activity to areas previously known as transit points. Recent reporting focused on three towns – Kluang, Renggam, and Bekok – to assess the initial impact of the expanded rail service.
Kluang: A Gradual Revival
In Kluang, local business owners are already noting a change. Lim Jit Chew, the third-generation owner of an 80-year-old coffeeshop near the train station, reports a growing number of visitors, particularly since the introduction of the ETS. He attributes this to the convenience and affordability of the new public transport option, especially as people resume travel following pandemic restrictions.
While the new station is a short walk from his shop, Lim says customers continue to seek out the established eatery. Dahlan Lokna, a hotel front desk executive in Kluang, echoes this sentiment, noting an increase in people visiting the town, though not yet a significant rise in hotel occupancy. He believes many visitors currently opt for day trips, but sees potential for growth with increased tourism activities.
Renggam and Bekok: Early Signs of Change
Further along the line, in Renggam, Atikah Ishak, a cook at a local food court, observes a slow but visible increase in foot traffic. Located 80km from Johor Baru, Renggam is still largely undiscovered by travelers outside the region, but Atikah anticipates more visitors in the coming months. She, like Dahlan, emphasizes the need for more attractions to draw tourists to the smaller towns.
In Bekok, Tan Tok Ha, who sells asam laksa near the train station, has seen improved business, particularly on weekends. While the start of the new year is typically slow, she hopes for a boost during and after Chinese New Year. Trader Kamisan Zakaria, selling satay in Bekok for over 40 years, points to the recent opening of a new Indian Muslim restaurant as a sign of confidence in the town’s future.
Kamisan also notes that the upcoming durian season, a major draw for visitors from Singapore, could further boost the local economy, with the ETS providing a new travel option.
Service Expansion and Future Outlook
The 192km Gemas-Johor Baru Electrified Double-Tracking Project includes 16 stops, with trains capable of carrying up to 312 passengers. Currently, eight trips run daily between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur. Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced plans to increase service frequency to ten trips per day during peak travel periods, including Chinese New Year (February 13-22) and Hari Raya Aidilfitri (March 13-29).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ETS3?
The ETS3 is the Electric Train Service between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur, which began operations on December 12.
How many stations are there along the new ETS route?
There are 16 stops along the 192km Gemas-Johor Baru Electrified Double-Tracking Project, including 11 new stations like Kluang, Renggam, and Bekok.
How often will the ETS run between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur?
Currently, there are eight trips between Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur, with four trips in each direction. This will increase to ten trips per day during peak travel periods.
Will these smaller towns be able to capitalize on the increased accessibility provided by the ETS and transform into thriving destinations?
