All aboard for the rail benefits of a high-speed train system

THE KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu) railway was historically the lifeline that linked the tin mines and rubber plantations of upcountry Malaya with the political capital of Kuala Lumpur and the shipping and finance centre of Singapore. Beyond KL, the intrepid traveller could find connections to Bangkok and deeper into Thailand.

Even after Singapore and Malaysia went their separate ways in 1965 the train service continued to play its vital role, maintaining the economic, social and cultural links between the two nations. It still provides a pleasant and relaxing trip for tourists, but no longer meets the needs of busy executives. Compared with a train journey of at least six hours between KL and Singapore, a short flight or a road trip on the purpose-built North-South Highway are clearly more attractive and time-efficient for business people.

This situation, however, is set to change dramatically.