China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) has marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s rail sector with the official launch of its new fleet of electric multiple unit (EMU) trains on the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Putrajaya Line. The 20 six-car EMU trains, valued at approximately MYR 2.3 billion (USD 548 million), were procured through a 2019 contract with MRT Corp, representing CRRC’s first major rail project in Southeast Asia. These trains enhance the line’s capacity from 15 to 25 trains per hour in each direction, improving daily ridership potential to over 500,000 passengers and reducing travel times between key stations like Kwasa Damansara and Putrajaya Sentral.
The CRRC EMUs feature advanced specifications tailored for urban commuting, including a top speed of 100 km/h, energy-efficient regenerative braking systems, and low-floor designs for accessibility. Each train accommodates up to 1,200 passengers with 300 seats, equipped with air-conditioning, LED lighting, CCTV surveillance, and passenger information systems for real-time updates. The trains incorporate Malaysian-sourced components for localization, supporting the country’s rail manufacturing ecosystem, and are designed for low maintenance with a 30-year lifespan. This deployment addresses growing urban mobility demands in the Klang Valley, promoting sustainable transport amid Malaysia’s push for green infrastructure.
The introduction follows a two-year testing phase and aligns with Malaysia’s National Transport Policy 2019-2030, aiming to expand MRT coverage to 140 km by 2030. MRT Corp’s Chief Executive Officer, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, emphasized the project’s significance in modernizing public transit, noting that the new trains significantly enhance efficiency and passenger comfort, positioning the Putrajaya Line as a cornerstone of sustainable mobility in Greater Kuala Lumpur. CRRC’s involvement strengthens bilateral ties between China and Malaysia, with potential for future expansions to other lines like the Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Kajang extension.
The roll-out coincides with increased ridership post-pandemic, with the Putrajaya Line serving 200,000 daily commuters. By integrating smart technologies and eco-friendly features, the CRRC trains position Malaysia as a regional leader in advanced rail systems, reducing carbon emissions and alleviating road congestion. Future plans include maintenance contracts and technology transfers to local firms, fostering long-term economic benefits.
(Source: Railway Supply)
