Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) has introduced the MySawasdee Penang Edition special train service, a trial route operating between Butterworth and Hat Yai from 29 December 2024 to 5 January 2025. This initiative aims to assess demand and customer response, with a view to planning future train services to other key destinations within the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) network.
The MySawasdee Penang Edition train will make stops at several major stations, including Bukit Mertajam, Sungai Petani, Alor Setar, Arau, and Padang Besar. The one-way fare for this service is priced at RM45. Ticket sales will begin on 23 December 2024 at 10:00 AM and can be purchased via the KTMB Mobile app (KITS), ticketing kiosks, or the official KTMB website at www.ktmb.com.my.
The train schedule includes departures from Butterworth at 7:40 AM, arriving in Hat Yai at approximately 12:05 PM (local time), and departures from Hat Yai at 3:00 PM, arriving in Butterworth at 9:46 PM. This new route provides residents in northern Peninsular Malaysia and tourists from Thailand with a seamless and comfortable journey, eliminating the need to change trains.
The introduction of this route is expected to boost both domestic and international tourism, particularly by attracting more visitors from Hat Yai to Penang, renowned for its cultural heritage and unique local cuisine. It also has the potential to enhance domestic tourism and positively impact the local economy, benefiting various businesses along the train’s route.
KTMB encourages travellers to plan their journeys in advance and secure their tickets early. For more information, the KTMB customer service centre can be reached at 03-9779 1200.
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