KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail (KL-Singapore HSR) could significantly enhance connectivity between the two cities, currently among the busiest flight routes in the world.
Economist Doris Liew from the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs noted the HSR would cut travel time between cities to just 90 minutes, benefiting business travelers, especially between Johor and Singapore. “KL airport is far from the city centre, but the HSR offers direct, city-to-city travel,” she said.
The HSR will feature seven stations across Malaysia—Bandar Malaysia, Sepang-Putrajaya, Seremban, Melaka, Muar, Batu Pahat, and Iskandar Puteri—before reaching Jurong East in Singapore.
Liew highlighted the HSR’s potential to reduce congestion at the Johor-Singapore causeway, which can take up to six hours, making the rail a crucial time-saver for business travelers.
Taylor’s University senior lecturer Paul Anthony Maria Das emphasised the project’s impact on trade, regional investment, and cultural ties, fostering stronger economic integration between Malaysia and Singapore.
Observers suggest the HSR should involve a public-private partnership (PPP), ensuring long-term sustainability and viability, as a purely private venture could be risky due to the high investment required.
Moody’s Katrina Ell pointed out that would enhance labour mobility, and boost exports. – BERNAMA
