BANGKOK, Oct 6 — Malaysia’s national railway operator Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have successfully conducted a trial run of the cross-border “MySawasdee” tourist train, ahead of its scheduled operation by the end of 2025.
According to national news agency Bernama, governor of the SRT, Veeris Ammarapala, said the trial along the Padang Besar–Surat Thani route from September 21 to 23 “marks another significant step towards promoting rail tourism and strengthening economic, cultural, and friendship ties between the two neighbouring countries.”
He added that the test covered key technical aspects, including platform clearances, coach height, wheel spacing, and braking systems, to ensure compliance with safety standards before regular service begins.
Veeris also noted that KTMB will operate a three-car test train on the Bangkok-Padang Besar route as part of preparations for the official launch.
“The extension of the MySawasdee train service to Surat Thani will not only offer a new and unique travel experience for passengers, but also provide more travel options, generate economic value, and strengthen cultural and social ties between Thailand and Malaysia,” he said.
The MySawasdee service, which currently operates on holidays along the Kuala Lumpur-Hatyai route, aims to boost rail tourism while enhancing connectivity between the two countries.
