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I frequently used Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) to travel from Ipoh to KL and vice versa, including its commuter services within Klang Valley.

The Rawang-Ipoh electrification project has been delayed for far too long from the initial proposed completion date of January 2004. Now after completion, commuters are faced with another delay on the delivery of new coaches that utilised the new electric lines, which is expected to be up and running by mid 2010.

It is sad to see that we have modern railway stations constructed between Rawang and Ipoh but the coaches are still old (though refurbished) and pulled by diesel locomotives. The impact on passengers is longer travel time and bumpy ride between Sg Buloh and Rawang on old tracks.

In comparison, so much has been done for road transport such as the PLUS highway. The road from Rawang to Tanjung Malim has been expanded into a three-lane carriage and the rest area has been upgraded.

Many Malaysians and I who commute on the KL-Ipoh route wants to see real healthy competition between road transportation either on private cars or express buses with efficient and modern rail transportation.

On top of that, oil prices are on the rise again. By June, buses would announce its fare hike. KTM fares are still relatively cheaper especially for its economy class. But commuter passengers have to put up with mediocre coach, discomfort and limited seats.

Meanwhile, we have huge surplus of electricity supply and KTM is still not in a position (until YTL proposes a bullet train to create demand for the excess electricity) to tap into such advantage.

If our government doesn't want to focus on rail transport for commuters, I suggest they should sell off KTM for RM1 or fully-lease it to any party who seriously wants to offer quality services to commuters.

KTM was here long before we have toll roads and have served Malaysians well. Please do not neglect this jewel.

Lastly, I give my salute to all KTM staff - you have done well despite being barred from moving with times.

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