Rapid Rail has recorded just 25 service disruptions across its rail network up to August 2025, showing major performance improvements compared to past years.
According to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, this is a strong sign that efforts to strengthen rail reliability are paying off.
Number of disruptions dropped significantly
He pointed out that the number of disruptions had dropped from 71 in 2024 and 118 in 2023.
Despite the improvement, the minister acknowledged that “even one disruption” is inconvenient for commuters.
While these improvements mark progress over previous years, the ministry recognises that even a single disruption causes inconvenience to passengers”, Loke said in a written reply to Parliament on 17 November 2025.
“So, the ministry will continue to support Rapid Rail in further improving the reliability of Light Rail Transit, Mass Rail Transit and monorail services, while reducing the number of disruptions.”
This is in response to a question about Rapid Rail’s strategy to prevent prolonged service interruptions and whether it was learning from other countries like Singapore.
Started using data-driven maintenance strategies
Loke shared that Rapid Rail has started using data-driven maintenance strategies.
This includes predictive maintenance using smart sensors installed on key parts of the system to catch early warning signs before breakdowns happen.
A system analytics centre has also been set up to monitor the trains and infrastructure in real-time. This allows for quicker response whenever issues arise.
Rapid Rail has also signed long-term service agreements with the original manufacturers of its equipment.
This move helps ensure steady access to spare parts and technical support.
A key result of these efforts can be seen in the increase of Mean Kilometres Between Failure (MKBF), which measures how far a train travels on average before facing a problem.
The MKBF figure now stands at 550,000 KM as of August 2025, compared to 330,000 KM in 2024 and 160,000 KM in 2023.
The ministry says these steps show clear progress and are part of a bigger plan to provide Malaysians with more reliable and safer public transport in the long term.
