Booking KTMB train tickets online using the KITS mobile app for travel from KL to Johor.

Ready to ditch the traffic jams of the North-South Expressway? As of 2026, the dream of a seamless, high-speed rail journey to the south is finally a reality. With the completion of the electrified double-track project, you can now zoom from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru in record time.

Whether you're a weekend warrior heading to Legoland or a savvy traveler planning a cross-border trip to Singapore, here is your ultimate guide on how to go to Johor Bahru by ETS.

Why Choose ETS Over Driving or Flying?

Until recently, taking the train to JB meant a slow crawl or a tedious transfer at Gemas. In 2026, the ETS (Electric Train Service) has changed the game.

  • Speed & Efficiency: Reach JB Sentral from KL Sentral in approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.

  • Cost-Effective: Tickets are significantly cheaper than last-minute flights and save you the RM150+ usually spent on petrol and tolls.

  • Unmatched Comfort: Forget cramped bus seats. Enjoy spacious legroom, onboard F&B at the bistro, and the luxury of Business Class (available on Platinum services).

Step 1: Choosing Your Train Type

KTMB currently operates two main service tiers for the southern route. Knowing the difference will help you balance your budget and time:


Train TypeFeaturesIdeal For
ETS PlatinumFewer stops, fastest travel time, includes a Business Class coach with meals and entertainment.Business travelers and those seeking maximum comfort.
ETS GoldStops at more intermediate stations (like Seremban, Kluang, and Kulai).Budget-conscious travelers and those heading to smaller towns.

Pro-Tip: The "Silver" class is no longer operational on this long-distance route as of early 2026, so focus your search on Gold and Platinum.

Step 2: Booking Your Tickets (The 2026 Way)

Don’t wait until you get to the station! Tickets for the KL-JB route often sell out weeks in advance, especially during festive seasons like Hari Raya or Chinese New Year.

  1. Use the KITS App: Download the KTMB Integrated Ticketing System (KITS) app on your smartphone. It is the most reliable way to check live schedules.

  2. Web Booking: Visit the official KTMB website.

  3. Flexi-Fare Savings: KTMB uses a dynamic pricing model. Booking at least 30 days in advance can save you up to 20% compared to last-minute purchases.

Latest 2026 ticket prices for a specific travel date

While the ETS (Train) prices are fixed by KTMB based on distance and class, they are highly competitive compared to flying. Here is a breakdown of what travelers can expect to pay for a one-way trip from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru:

1. ETS Train Ticket Prices (Estimated 2026)

As the electrified double-track is fully operational, these are the standard fare ranges:

  • ETS Gold: RM 70 – RM 90

  • ETS Platinum: RM 95 – RM 120

  • ETS Business Class: RM 150 – RM 180 (Includes meals, extra legroom, and personalized service).

2. Comparison: Flight Prices (Kuala Lumpur to JB)

For a travel date of June 15, 2026, flights are currently starting as low as:

  • Firefly: From MYR 74

  • AirAsia: From MYR 75

  • Malaysia Airlines: From MYR 109

SEO Tip for your Blog:

In your post, emphasize that while flight prices look similar to the train, the ETS saves you hidden costs. When you fly, you have to pay for:

  • Grab/Taxi to KLIA (RM 65+)

  • Grab/Taxi from Senai Airport to JB Town (RM 35+)

  • Luggage fees (if not included)

With ETS, you arrive directly at JB Sentral (City Center), making it the most budget-friendly and convenient "all-in" price for travelers!



Step 3: The Journey – What to Expect

Scenic window view of the Malaysian countryside from an ETS train heading south to Johor Bahru.


Departure: KL Sentral

Arrive at least 30 minutes early. If you’ve booked Business Class, head to the Ruby Lounge at KL Sentral to enjoy some pre-departure snacks and a quiet workspace.

Onboard Amenities

  • Power Outlets: Available under every seat.

  • Bistro Coach: Located in Coach C, offering Nasi Lemak, Mee Goreng, and hot coffee.

  • Prayer Room (Musolla): Available for Muslim travelers.

  • Luggage Space: Dedicated racks for large suitcases at the end of each coach.

Arrival: JB Sentral

You will arrive in the heart of the city. JB Sentral is directly connected to Komtar JBCC and City Square Mall. If you are heading to Singapore, the Shuttle Tebrau (the 5-minute train to Woodlands) and the CIQ complex are just a short walk away within the same building.

Essential Travel Tips for 2026

  • Bring a Jacket: The air conditioning on Malaysian trains is famously "arctic." You’ll thank us later.

  • Check the Schedule: As of February 2026, there are now 8 daily services between KL and JB. Double-check your departure time, as KTMB recently updated the timetable to improve frequency.

  • Identity Matters: You must bring your IC (for Malaysians) or Passport (for foreigners) as ticket inspectors frequently verify identities against the digital ticket.

Final Thoughts

The ETS expansion to Johor Bahru is a total win for travelers. It’s eco-friendly, stress-free, and lets you enjoy the beautiful Malaysian countryside while you cruise at 140 km/h.