Hassle-Free Travel from KL to JB: How RTS, Electric Train Service & Elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit Are Reshaping Mobility
In the generation of rapid movement and fast-paced urbanisation, transportation infrastructure stands as the lifeline of every developing city. Nowhere is this clearer than in the Malaysian landscape, where major infrastructure initiatives—RTS (Rapid Transit System), the ETS, and E-Art—are transforming travel between KL and Johor Bahru (JB). These developments are not only reinventing the way Malaysians move but also driving a dynamic shift in the Malaysian real estate landscape. This blog, presented by Gplex, explores how new rail and transit links is boosting convenience for commuters, thereby empowering a new vision for Malaysia’s real estate and the living experience it offers. Going beyond surface reports, we analyse the company’s services and focus to keeping property buyers, investors, and tenants ahead of these significant shifts.
Malaysia’s North-South Corridor: From Congestion to Connectivity
Traditionally, journeys between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru have been plagued by congestion, unpredictable bus schedules, and flights subject to weather delays. With over millions of passengers travelling between the central region and the southern state annually—and even more with cross-border commuters—the need for efficient intercity transport has never been greater. Enter the new era:
• RTS Link: A new rail line bridging Johor Bahru’s Bukit Chagar and Singapore’s Woodlands with just a 6-minute ride.
• ETS: The electric train reducing Kuala Lumpur–Johor Bahru travel to about 4.5 hours in comfort and style.
• E-Art: The game-changing elevated autonomous rapid transit for seamless last-mile connections and urban dispersion.
RTS, ETS & E-Art: Malaysia’s Transportation Trifecta
1. RTS Link – The International Game-Changer
Slated to launch by December 2026, the RTS Link offers Malaysia’s premier international commuter connection—reducing dependence on road travel and creating new real estate opportunities within walking distance of stations. Market trends reveal serviced apartment prices near the Johor RTS zone have soared by around 20% annually, with smaller, well-located units experiencing price jumps of up to 27%.
2. ETS – Electrifying the West Coast
The ETS’s expanded routes (opening in December 2025) will let travellers board in JB, stop at key cities along the west coast, and alight in KL in roughly 4–4.5 hours—with premium comfort and seamless service. This leap in transport efficiency is projected to disperse economic activity, stimulate tourism, and enhance workforce mobility in both regions.
3. E-Art – The Urban Innovation
E-Art elevates the commuting experience for JB’s expanding population, acting as the connector between core routes, residential neighborhoods, and commercial centres. Its AI-powered operation ensure efficient last-mile coverage, essential for maximizing the benefits of public transport upgrades.
The Impact on Malaysia’s Real Estate: A Transformative Wave
Demand Surge Along Transit Lines
From Iskandar Puteri to Tebrau, and KL Sentral—Malaysia’s real estate along these new transport corridors is experiencing a renaissance:
• Property Price Appreciation: Properties near RTS and ETS stations have outpaced others, some seeing 18–20% annual price gains.
• Rental Yield Spike: Johor’s gross rental yields in connected districts now reach 6.25%, compared to the national average of 5.16%.
• TODs combining residential, office, and retail hubs are becoming investment magnets.
• Vacancy reduction and steady absorption point to sustained property stability near transit nodes.
Transforming Urban and Regional Lifestyles
The corridor from KL to JB is more than a travel path; it’s a lifestyle backbone enabling:
• Greater mobility lets professionals work in Singapore or KL while living in Johor.
• Improved access to schools and healthcare facilities across states.
• Enhanced Livability: Walkable, mixed-use districts grow around stations.
Gplex Realty: Guiding Clients in the New Era
At Gplex Realty, our mission is client-first: delivering leading real estate services that anticipate and adapt to market evolution. Here’s how we help clients seize these opportunities:
1. Market Intelligence and Property Curation – With vast market experience and deep industry ties, Gplex offers hyper-local insights to identify properties best positioned for growth.
2. Integrated Digital Experience (GOS) – The GOS platform lets clients discover, book, and monitor real estate online—mirroring the modern efficiency of Malaysia’s upgraded transport.
3. Personalised Investment Advisory – Expert teams analyse properties agency near me how infrastructure projects affect pricing, yield, and demand to craft bespoke strategies.
4. Tenant & Investor Support – As mobility increases, Gplex’s end-to-end property support ensures smooth experiences.
Market Facts: What the Numbers Reveal
• Avg. property price growth (RTS zone): around 20% yearly increase
• Rental yield near RTS/ETS: 6.1–6.25% gross
• National avg. yield: around 5% average
• Service apartment size spike: +27% for 501–750 sq ft
• Projected post-RTS property rise: 5–6% annually
• Malaysia’s residential market CAGR: 6.64% (2025–2033)
• ETS travel time (KL–JB): less than 5 hours end-to-end
Trending: Convenience Meets Opportunity
Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs): Integrated hubs redefining community and access.
Smart Mobility Integration: AI mobility tools elevate last-mile comfort.
Sustainable Growth: Green buildings and public transport support eco-conscious living.
Benefits for Buyers, Investors & Developers
• Homebuyers: Greater job access and appreciation prospects.
• Ideal timing for long-term returns.
• Developers: Higher demand near stations drives new designs.
• Improved quality of rental experience.
Challenges and Considerations
• Overconcentration risks
• Government planning frameworks will shape outcomes.
• Maintaining access across income groups remains vital.
The Future with Gplex Realty
Malaysia’s leap in transport connectivity is rewriting the rules of its real estate market. Gplex Realty stands ready not only to interpret this new reality but to empower clients with insight-driven strategies that turn infrastructure growth into financial value. From start to completion, Gplex clients are well-positioned—benefiting from Malaysia’s mobility-driven growth corridor.
Common Questions
Q1. How will the RTS Link improve daily commuting between Johor Bahru and Singapore?
The RTS will deliver a 6-minute cross-border link, ending long waits and delays.
Q2. What impact do RTS, ETS, and E-Art have on property values along the transit corridors?
Properties near stations see up to 20% yearly appreciation and stronger rental demand.
Q3. How does E-Art complement the overall transportation system in Johor?
It strengthens Johor’s network through elevated, autonomous, and eco-smart transit solutions.
Final Thoughts
As Malaysia’s new mobility systems introduce rapid journeys between KL and JB, they’re also shaping a new era in Malaysian real estate. Gplex Realty serves as the strategic link between your aspirations and this transforming landscape. Whether for investment or lifestyle, the future has never been more promising. Discover, invest, and thrive—with Gplex Realty leading the way in Malaysia’s connected era.