Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) has launched the Shuttle Selatan commuter rail service in Johor, connecting Johor Bahru Sentral (JB Sentral) with Kulai and Pasir Gudang using existing rail infrastructure previously dedicated to freight operations. The new service is intended to improve regional connectivity and support growing transport demand in Johor, particularly in the context of the upcoming Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
The Shuttle Selatan network currently consists of two routes with four stations. The JB Sentral–Kulai route operates five daily return services, while the Kempas Baru–Pasir Gudang route operates two daily return services. Passengers travelling between JB Sentral and Pasir Gudang are required to transfer at Kempas Baru station. KTM is using repurposed electric train coaches hauled by diesel locomotives as an interim solution until the delivery of 10 new electric train sets, procured for RM200 million, which are expected to enter service within two to three years. Future expansion plans include additional stations on the Kulai route serving Paloh, Kluang, Renggam and Layang-Layang, while Bandar Baru Sri Alam, Taman Daya and Pasir Putih are planned for the Pasir Gudang route.
The Shuttle Selatan service forms part of Johor’s broader public transport development strategy ahead of the commencement of the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link in 2027. The RTS Link is expected to handle up to 10,000 passengers per hour, prompting state authorities to pursue complementary transport projects, including the proposed autonomous rapid transit (ART) network, expanded park-and-ride facilities and enhanced bus connectivity. The new commuter rail service follows the launch of KTM’s Electric Train Service (ETS) between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur in December 2025 and is expected to strengthen public transport accessibility across southern Johor.