Decision on competition in rail services after review, says Loke

 

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook said the study includes ways to strengthen KTMB and the Railway Asset Corporation.

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will set the direction of introducing multiple rail operators, based on the results of an ongoing feasibility study, transport minister Loke Siew Fook said.

In the Dewan Rakyat today, Loke said the study is aimed at improving the governance and framework of the existing railway model, encompassing financial, economic, operational, social, regulatory, and legal aspects.

“Operational sustainability and ecosystem improvement in railway management are always examined so that operators can continue to be competitive and provide the best service,” he said in reply to Wong Shu Qi (PH-Kluang) who wanted to know if the government planned to open up rail services to competition.

The study also includes looking at strengthening Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) and the Railway Asset Corporation.

He added that the transport ministry has also observed an opportunity to improve the railway management ecosystem for the mainline and intercity sector currently operated by KTMB. - FMT