Integrating Malaysia’s railway network with ‘China and beyond’ a key priority for operator KTM’s new chief
“Seamless rail networks from Malaysia to Indochina, China and even Europe – for freight and passenger travel – are among the key priorities for Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad’s (KTM) newly appointed acting chief executive officer Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin.”
“Ahmad Nizam is eyeing to revive the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Express, a freight rail service launched in 2024 which connects Malaysia with Thailand, Laos and China – aiming at opening new markets in the region and lowering business costs.”
“Rail expert Nor Aziati Abdul Hamid told CNA that KTM’s plans to integrate Malaysia’s freight rail network with neighbours in the north is a ‘shrewd move’ as it can facilitate the smooth movement of logistics with economic powerhouse China, adding that the integration also serves as a trade gateway to central Asia and Europe.”
“She said that these are plans in place under the Pan-Asia Railway Network, an agreement signed in 2006 which aims to connect Kunming in China’s Yunnan province all the way to Singapore, passing through Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. ”
See also: ‘ASEAN eyes rail connectivity to boost regional trade amid global tensions’