Budget 2027: Better connections could make KL easier to get around

WHILE much of the attention on Budget 2027, tabled on Oct 9, has centred on cash assistance and tax changes, its public transport commitments deserve equal attention.

Beyond the investments announced, the real test is whether they can make everyday journeys easier, more reliable and affordable.

Among the measures are Prasarana’s investment of more than RM3.4 billion to overhaul its rail services and the Government’s planned procurement of 42 new trainsets for ETS and KTM Komuter services. Another RM270 mil has been allocated to strengthen stage bus services in major cities.

These measures are intended to improve reliability through better-maintained trains, greater capacity and stronger bus services. For commuters, reliable public transport means getting to work on time without the added cost of alternative transport.

Alongside these improvements, Budget 2027 continues My50 and introduces MyKomuter50. The latter is expected to benefit 40,000 KTM Komuter users, with average savings of up to RM160 a month.

More affordable fares, supported by dependable services, can make public transport a practical choice for more households.

These commitments build on the Transport Ministry’s continued focus under Anthony Loke on improving the network and keeping travel affordable.

Through my community work in Kuala Lumpur, particularly Bukit Bintang, I am conscious that the city must work for the people who keep it running.

Behind its gleaming malls and vibrant dining scene are workers who depend on affordable, reliable transport every day.

Public transport keeps modern cities moving, as seen in Singapore, London and New York, where it is integral to daily life.

Kuala Lumpur should continue moving in that direction, gradually reducing reliance on private vehicles. An efficient network gives people better access to jobs, education and essential services.

But the journey does not end at the station entrance.

Budget 2027 also announced a 22km network of covered pedestrian walkways linking landmarks such as Masjid Negara, Dataran Merdeka and Pasar Seni.

Covered walkways are also planned to connect residential areas with businesses, schools, clinics and public transport stations.

In our climate, a comfortable walk can make a real difference to whether someone chooses public transport. Shelter should be continuous, crossings safe and pavements accessible to wheelchair users, older people and parents with pushchairs.

Better connectivity can also complement another Budget commitment: the restoration of Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, the KTMB headquarters and Menara Dayabumi. Making these places easier to reach could encourage people to explore the surrounding streets, shops and eateries.

This fits the wider direction of Warisan KL, which brings together heritage conservation, improved public spaces and pedestrian connectivity.

To maximise these investments, DBKL and transport operators should coordinate routes with neighbourhood needs and business activities.

Connections to markets, commercial streets and heritage attractions can bring customers to local traders while serving residents’ everyday journeys.

Last-mile access also needs equal attention. Reliable feeder buses, convenient transfers and walking routes that remain usable after dark would help commuters make better use of the network.

Residents and businesses should be consulted to identify missing links before plans are finalised.

Clear maintenance responsibilities and timely information during disruptions would also help maintain public confidence.

Budget 2027 provides a welcome foundation. Its benefits will be felt most clearly when a worker can get from home to work affordably and reliably, with fewer obstacles along the way. ‒ Oct 16, 2026

Ben Fong Kok Seng is the chairperson of the Bukit Bintang Parliamentary Zone Residents’ Representative Council .

The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.

Main image: Unsplash/Cecelia Chang

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