By Chan Wei Chao (REN 39846), Team Leader, Bricksmen Team · IQI Realty Sdn. Bhd. · Updated 3 November 2026
The northern region’s electric train service will get 12 brand-new trains, with the first batch expected in February 2027. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said on 2 November 2026 that each train has six cars and carries about 420 passengers, and that these will be the first brand-new trains brought into the north. A RM50 monthly pass for commuter trains is also due to be launched in 2027.
The new trains at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of trains | 12 |
| Size | Six cars per train, about 420 passengers each |
| First delivery | First batch expected in February 2027 |
| Why | The current trains are ageing, and some were moved to the north from the Klang Valley; procurement began two to three years ago |
| Frequency | Not yet announced. Loke said timetables are set by the operator, and the government encourages more services |
RM50 monthly commuter pass
- Price: RM50 a month for unlimited rides on commuter trains for 30 days.
- Coverage: Klang Valley and northern commuter train services. ETS is not included.
- Launch: In 2027, announced in Budget 2027; details are due by January 2027 at the latest.
- Savings: About RM200 to RM300 a month for regular commuters, according to the minister. As an example, a one-way trip from Alor Setar to Butterworth can cost RM15 to RM18.
Loke said cheaper fares alone will not bring in more passengers; better first-mile and last-mile links to stations are also needed.
What it means for Penang property
Newer trains and a cheaper monthly pass make it more practical to live in a mainland town on the northern line and commute by rail, for example to Butterworth for the ferry or Penang Sentral. Towns on the line in Seberang Perai include Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, Tasek Gelugor and Nibong Tebal. If you plan to commute by train, check the distance from the project to the nearest station and how you will get there.
New projects in mainland rail towns
| Project | Area | Type | Indicative price | Completion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harbour View Residence | Butterworth | Affordable home | RM417,000–RM549,000 | Q1 2029 |
| Silkspring Residence | Butterworth · Raja Uda | Condominium | RM527,650–RM558,650 | Q1 2029 |
| Sevora | Bukit Mertajam | Affordable home | RM430,000–RM472,800 | 2030 |
| Grains Residence | Bukit Mertajam · Bandar Perda | Serviced suite | RM318,000–RM641,000 | 2027 |
| Taman Ara Damai | Tasek Gelugor | Single-storey terraced house | From RM389,000 | June 2028 |
| Taman Bistari Indah | Nibong Tebal | 2-storey terraced house | RM688,800–RM691,800 | Q4 2027 |
Also read about the Penang LRT Mutiara Line, which will link the island to Penang Sentral, and our report on a possible third Penang bridge.
Frequently asked questions
How many new trains is the north getting?
12 new six-car trains, each carrying about 420 passengers.
When will the new trains arrive?
The first batch is expected in February 2027.
Will there be more trips?
Not announced yet. The minister said scheduling is up to the operator, and the government encourages more services.
Does the RM50 monthly pass cover ETS?
No. It covers commuter train services in the Klang Valley and the north.
Looking for a home on the mainland?
I can send the latest price lists for new projects in Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, Tasek Gelugor and Nibong Tebal. WhatsApp or call +60 10-313 9113.
Sources
- Oriental Daily: 北马电动火车明年迎12列新列车 50令吉月票减轻通勤负担
- Sinar Daily: 2027 Budget, govt to procure 42 new train sets
- Malay Mail: KTMB offers record 1.57 million ETS, ERT seats for January to March 2027
This article is general information based on ministerial statements and published reports as of 3 November 2026. Train schedules and pass details may change. It is not investment advice; project prices are indicative and depend on availability.