TECHNOLOGY - KL-Singapore high-speed train travel time shorter than taking flight

The Malaysian Insider

KL-Singapore high-speed train travel time shorter than taking flight

The Singapore-Kuala Lumpur high-speed rail (HSR) is expected to cut travelling time by half, even if one were to take a flight, according to details published by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD).

Singapore's The Straits Times (ST), quoting SPAD, said travel time from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur would only take 2.5 hours, including transfers and immigration clearance. It currently takes 4 hours by flight, including time spent in waiting and immigration clearance.

The paper reported that both Singaporean and Malaysian authorities have been meeting once every month on the HSR project.

SPAD chief executive Mohamad Nur Ismal Kamal previously said both governments had entered phase two of negotiations on the project, to decide on issues like technical surveys, socio-economic analyses on the stations and environmental analyses.

“On our part, we have to choose the most beneficial way for Malaysia to take on this project as one of the main catalysts for it to become a developed and high-income nation,” Nur told The Star last month.

SPAD's Singapore counterpart, the Land Transport Authority, has also embarked on a study to find the location of the HSR's final stop in the republic, which could right now be either Tuas West, Jurong East or the city centre.

The construction of the HSR, which could reportedly cost more than RM40 billion, is due to begin late next year.

ST also reported that a Singapore firm has welcomed Nusajaya as one of the proposed Malaysian stops along the HSR.

The western Johor township is, after all, where Singapore's FASTrack Autosports, the company owned by tycoon Peter Lim, is building a motorsports hub which includes a racing circuit.

"We heard there will be a station near our circuit, but there's been no official confirmation.

"If there is one, it will be more convenient for Singaporeans for sure. But even if there wasn't a station, I think enthusiasts will still come to the track," said FASTrack chief executive Barry Kan.

Other stations being proposed include Seremban, Ayer Keroh, Muar and Batu Pahat.

Singaporeans have traditionally visited Malaysia during holidays, using popular means including the current overnight train service provided by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad.

"The prospect of dinner in Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor, supper in Malacca's Jonker Street and a return to Singapore before clubbing hours is looking more likely, going by published details of the planned high-speed rail (HSR) link between KL and Singapore," said ST. – July 3, 2014.