Train lease from China: KTMB workers won't lose their jobs, assures Loke

Transport Minister Anthony Loke assured Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) workers that they will not lose their jobs when the government leases 62 additional trains from China.

Speaking at a press conference today, he said the government plans to utilise local railway workers for maintenance and repairs of the new trains.

"This is something that we have already deliberated on before making the decision.

"The Railway Union of Malaya (RUM) has nothing to worry about. No one will lose their job, so they don't have to fear this.

"This initiative is taken to increase and strengthen KTMB services so it will be more accepted by the rakyat," he said after an event at MRT Corp headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.

Loke was responding to RUM's statement on Sunday, where the union raised its concerns over Putrajaya's decision to lease additional trains from China in an RM10.7 billion agreement.

Among others, the union expressed its worry that the move would have an impact on the jobs of existing railway workers, especially those who are in the maintenance, repair and operations sector.

Drastic measure

Adding further, Loke said the decision to lease trains from China was derived from public complaints against KTM services which were allegedly slacking and not to people's satisfaction.

"This is why we have to take a more drastic measure to increase the number of trains so that the services can be improved," he said, adding that the government will bear the leasing costs fully.

Last week, the minister reportedly announced Putrajaya's decision to lease the 62 trains from the China Railway Construction Corporation, a railway manufacturer with a presence in Malaysia.

"I hope that this initiative will enhance the reliability of rail services and increase usage, while also managing the financial aspects of procuring the train sets," Free Malaysia Today quoted Loke as saying.

China deal will cost at least RM10.7b

Announcing the government-to-government lease deal last week, Loke said Phase 1, which is from 2024 to 2027, will cost RM10.7 billion and be paid in instalments over a 30-year lease period.

The final cost is still being negotiated, he said last week.

The first phase of 62 passenger trains will consist of 36 three-car set (3CS) electric multiple unit (EMU) sets, 12 six-car set (6CS) EMU sets and 14 6CS diesel multiple unit (DMU) sets.

"The advantage of this new method is that the leasing cost covers all levels of maintenance, repair, and overhaul by the entity supplying the trains for the lease period," Loke said.

Following dance party, KTMB to 'improve' train guidelines

Financial situation must be considered for HSR, LRT projects in Johor - Loke

Union launches ‘badge campaign’ against KTMB

Prasarana to start work on 'open payment' system next year

Prasarana to take legal action over railway track damage