The Blog on investing in real estate
Hassle-Free Travel from KL to JB: How RTS, ETS & E-Art Are Revolutionising Connectivity
In the era of modern transportation and fast-paced urbanisation, mobility networks stands as the backbone of every thriving city. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Malaysia, where major infrastructure initiatives—the RTS, the ETS, and E-Art—are transforming travel between Kuala Lumpur (KL) and Johor Bahru (JB). These developments are not only redefining the way Malaysians move but also inspiring a dynamic shift in the Malaysian property market. This article, presented by Gplex Realty, explores how new rail and transit corridors is improving convenience for commuters, thereby supporting a new vision for Malaysia’s real estate and the urban life it offers. Going beyond surface reports, we discuss Gplex’s services and commitment to keeping property buyers, investors, and tenants ahead of these impactful shifts.
From Traffic to Transformation: Malaysia’s North–South Travel Revolution
In the past, journeys between KL and JB have been marred by jams, unpredictable bus schedules, and costly flights affected by conditions. With over 8 million Malaysians travelling between the Klang Valley and the southern state annually—and even more with Singapore-Causeway crossings—the demand for rapid, reliable, seamless travel has never been greater. Introducing the new era:
• RTS Link: The cross-border rail line directly connecting JB’s Bukit Chagar to Singapore’s Woodlands, slashing journey times to 6 minutes.
• ETS: Malaysia’s modern, electrified rail, cutting KL-JB journeys from over 7 hours to under 4.5 hours—comfortably and sustainably.
• E-Art: The game-changing elevated autonomous rapid transit for seamless last-mile connections and urban dispersion.
The Transportation Trio Reshaping Malaysia
1. RTS Link – The International Game-Changer
Slated to launch by December 2026, the RTS Link offers Malaysia’s premier international commuter connection—ending reliance on buses and creating new demand for properties within walking distance of stations. Market trends reveal serviced apartment prices near the Johor RTS zone have soared by around 20% annually, with smaller, well-located units experiencing price jumps of up to 27%.
2. ETS – Electrifying the West Coast
The ETS’s expanded routes (opening in December 2025) will let travellers board in JB, stop at key cities along the west coast, and alight in KL in roughly under five hours—with premium comfort and seamless service. This leap in transport efficiency is expected to spread economic activity, stimulate tourism, and enhance workforce mobility in both regions.
3. E-Art – The Urban Innovation
E-Art transforms everyday transit for JB’s expanding population, acting as the bridge between major rail stations, housing clusters, and commercial centres. Its autonomous design and data-driven routing ensure efficient last-mile coverage, optimising the returns of heavy infrastructure investment.
How Transit Expansion Is Reshaping Malaysia’s Property Market
Demand Surge Along Transit Lines
From Bukit Chagar to Iskandar Puteri, and properties agency near me KL Sentral—Malaysia’s real estate along these new transport corridors is seeing renewed growth:
• Property Price Appreciation: Properties near RTS and ETS stations have outpaced others, some seeing 18–20% annual price gains.
• Rental yields have climbed to 6.25% in connected Johor zones versus the 5.16% national average.
• New Investment Hotspots: Transit-oriented developments (TODs) are attracting families and investors seeking lifestyle convenience.
• Balanced Market Supply: Reduced vacancy rates and stronger demand indicate a healthy, transit-driven market.
Transforming Urban and Regional Lifestyles
The corridor from KL to JB is no longer just a travel path; it’s a lifestyle backbone enabling:
• Greater mobility lets professionals work in Singapore or KL while living in Johor.
• Improved access to schools and healthcare facilities across states.
• Enhanced Livability: Walkable, mixed-use districts grow around stations.
Gplex Realty: Guiding Clients in the New Era
At Gplex Realty, our mission is client-first: delivering leading real estate solutions that align with market evolution. Here’s how we enable clients to capitalise on these emerging prospects:
1. Market Intelligence and Property Curation – With vast market experience and collaborations with 50+ developers, Gplex offers hyper-local insights to identify properties best positioned for growth.
2. Integrated Digital Experience (GOS) – The Gplex Online System lets clients browse, shortlist, and manage real estate online—mirroring the modern efficiency of Malaysia’s upgraded transport.
3. Personalised Investment Advisory – Expert teams evaluate how infrastructure projects affect pricing, yield, and demand to craft bespoke strategies.
4. Tenant & Investor Support – As mobility increases, Gplex’s end-to-end property support ensures stress-free ownership and tenancy.
Key Metrics Reflecting the Shift
• Avg. property price growth (RTS zone): ≈20% annually
• Rental yield near RTS/ETS: 6.1–6.25% gross
• National avg. yield: ≈5.16%
• Service apartment size spike: 27% appreciation for compact units
• Projected post-RTS property rise: expected steady annual climb
• Malaysia’s residential market CAGR: ~6.6% growth trajectory
• ETS travel time (KL–JB): 4–4.5 hours by Dec 2025
Trending: Convenience Meets Opportunity
Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs): Integrated hubs redefining community and access.
Smart Mobility Integration: AI mobility tools elevate last-mile comfort.
Sustainable Growth: Green buildings and public transport support eco-conscious living.
Why This Matters for Malaysian Property Seekers
• Home seekers enjoy enhanced value and connectivity.
• Ideal timing for long-term returns.
• Developers: Higher demand near stations drives new designs.
• Improved quality of rental experience.
Key Factors to Watch
• Overconcentration risks
• Government planning frameworks will shape outcomes.
• Affordability balance
The Future with Gplex Realty
Malaysia’s leap in transport connectivity is reshaping the rules of its real estate market. Gplex Realty is prepared not only to understand this new reality but to equip clients with expertise and digital tools that turn infrastructure growth into personal value. From start to completion, Gplex clients are future-proofed—benefiting from Malaysia’s rail, real estate, and lifestyle revolution.
Common Questions
Q1. How will the RTS Link improve daily commuting between Johor Bahru and Singapore?
It will cut travel to just 6 minutes, easing Causeway congestion.
Q2. What impact do RTS, ETS, and E-Art have on property values along the transit corridors?
Transit projects boost accessibility, yields, and long-term property value.
Q3. How does E-Art complement the overall transportation system in Johor?
E-Art connects major rail lines to communities and business zones, enabling efficient last-mile travel.
Final Thoughts
As RTS, ETS, and E-Art usher in rapid journeys between KL and JB, they’re also shaping a new era in Malaysian real estate. Gplex Realty acts as the trusted bridge between your goals and this transforming landscape. Whether for residence or lifestyle, the path has never been smoother. Discover, invest, and thrive—with Gplex Realty leading the way in Malaysia’s connected era.