Post by : Meena Ariff

Prasarana Malaysia Berhad reported a major improvement in rail service reliability in 2025, with disruptions across all its rail networks dropping by more than 50 per cent compared to the previous year. The state-owned public transport operator recorded just 31 service disruptions in 2025, down sharply from 71 incidents in 2024.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke described the progress as clear evidence of Prasarana’s renewed commitment to improving public transport, following widespread criticism in 2024 over frequent breakdowns and delays that weakened public confidence in rail services in the Klang Valley.

Speaking at Prasarana’s annual performance briefing, Loke noted that conditions had significantly improved since he resumed office as transport minister. He said persistent technical issues once plagued rail operations but credited Prasarana staff for sustained efforts over the past three years that have led to visible positive changes.

One of the key improvements highlighted was the introduction of a new performance indicator known as Mean Kilometres Before Failure (MKBF), which measures how far trains travel before experiencing mechanical or technical problems. In 2024, trains averaged one breakdown every 70,000 kilometres. By 2025, this improved dramatically to one breakdown every 790,000 kilometres.

Alongside improved reliability, public transport usage also climbed steadily. Ridership across Prasarana-operated services rose 11 per cent year-on-year to 1.31 million passengers, bringing usage close to levels seen before the Covid-19 pandemic. The annual performance briefing itself was an initiative introduced by Loke as part of broader reforms in the public transport sector.

Looking ahead, Prasarana is prioritising the completion of the third LRT line serving Shah Alam, which has faced repeated delays. Loke acknowledged public disappointment but stressed that safety remains the top priority. He said unresolved technical issues with contractors must be addressed before the project can proceed to the free-fail run (FFR) stage, a critical step before final approval.

A meeting is expected to be held next week to determine the next steps and establish when the FFR can take place. Until then, no official opening date has been confirmed.

Meanwhile, existing rail services are also set for major upgrades. The Kelana Jaya LRT line will undergo extensive improvements throughout the year, supported by a RM1 billion allocation under Budget 2026 to replace 26 train units. The Kelana Jaya line currently serves about 250,000 passengers daily.

In 2025, the Kajang MRT line emerged as RapidRail’s busiest service, with an average daily ridership of 270,000 passengers, reflecting growing reliance on urban rail transport.

#Malaysia News #Transport #World News