The free service would be implemented using savings of RM15 million a year by suspending commuter train services from Subang Skypark to KL Sentral because of low demand, according to transport minister Loke Siew Fook.

Secondary school students might also be able to travel free later, depending on financial ability, he told reporters after distributing 2023 Chinese New Year celebration packs to passengers of the north-bound electric train services and the commuter services in KL Sentral today.

The free rides are on commuter train services in the northern region and the Klang Valley and inter-city services on the Gemas-Tumpat route.

He said the offer will also benefit 150 primary school pupils who travel by train from Dabong to Kuala Geris in Kelantan every day with a fare of RM1 per trip.

Loke said the Subang Skypark-KL Sentral commuter train was used by about 80 to 100 passengers every day since it began in 2018. The service costs RM15 million a year to run 32 trips a day.

“Sometimes, the train is empty. There is no demand yet; perhaps after the airport is upgraded there may be a higher demand,” he said.

Loke said the four trains used on the route would be redeployed, with two sent to the north to increase the number of trips and two more for the Klang Valley commuter line.

The railway said 99% of the 99,900 ETS tickets for trips from Jan 18-27 had been sold up to 8am today.