The proposal for the cargo service has been approved by the Cabinet with the full support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, said transport minister Loke Siew Fook in Seremban today, Bernama reported.

His announcement comes days after he said KTM and the State Railway of Thailand had been given three months for preparations on reviving a direct passenger service between the two capitals.

Loke said a direct Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok rail link will improve connectivity to other countries, including Laos, China, and Central Asia.

The passenger service could serve to boost tourism. For example, tourists from Europe could travel to Kuala Lumpur and continue directly to Bangkok, and vice versa. It’s also more affordable than flying.

“Although the journey takes 15 to 16 hours, it offers scenic views of rural areas along the way, creating a memorable travel experience. I’m confident this mode of transport will appeal to many tourists,” he said.

Loke had said the service could be implemented quickly using the existing railway line from Bangkok to Padang Besar, Butterworth and Kuala Lumpur.