‘DMU TRAINS A BOON FOR EAST COAST’
They are much better than conventional trains in terms of comfort, says Wee
THE government hopes that the Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains, which were launched yesterday, will boost the economic, social and tourism sectors in the East Coast states.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong hoped that the DMUs, which are worth RM380 million, would benefit people, especially in Kelantan and Pahang.
He said five of the 13 DMU trains would start operations in the East Coast alignment, involving the Tumpat-Gua Musang and Gua Musang-Kuala Lipis routes.
“The trains are much better than conventional trains in terms of comfort for passengers.
“The train’s service is equivalent with those in developed countries and this is proof that the government is not only focusing on the Klang Valley, but also East Coast states,” he said at a press conference after launching the DMU trains at the Pasir Mas Keretapi Tanah Melayu station here yesterday.
Present were Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah and state Works, Infrastructure, Transport and Utilities Committee chairman Datuk Azami Mohd Nor.
Wee said the project was part of the government’s transformation plan to help the public, particularly those who used trains daily.
“Trains are used by students in remote areas, such as Dabong and Kuala Geris, and with this new train, they will be more comfortable going to school.”
Earlier, Wee and other delegates boarded the train at the Tumpat KTM station before disembarking at the station here.
It is learnt that the DMU trains were procured to replace the KTM Intercity conventional diesel trains.
Each coach has 204 seats and is equipped with modern facilities, such as LED screens, power sockets, prayer room, toilet, bistro, and parcel storage space.
The train also has four seats and toilets for persons with disabilities.