Upgrade of Butterworth KTM station a boost for tourism, says Penang exco

PLANS by the Transport Ministry to upgrade the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) station in Butterworth would further help boost tourism in Penang.

State executive councillor for tourism, Wong Hon Wai said that the upgrade can eventually see cross-border train rides between Thailand and Penang.

"It is a wise decision to spruce up the KTM station. Perhaps, we can have more trips down to the Klang Valley and from Thailand besides the northern corridor route from Perlis and Kedah to Butterworth," said Wong.

He said that the Thai Railways had previously announced that a proposed route between Bangkok and Penang to take place, some 1,155 km in rail line distance.

"We welcome this as we can further tap the backpackers market, especially those visiting Indochina, they can easily come over to explore Penang," said Wong.

He said that the decision to upgrade the KTM terminal, would see the handling of higher loads and better accessway to the cross-channel ferry terminal and Penang Sentral, a one-stop public transport hub.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook disclosed that the ministry has approved a RM30 million allocation for KTM to upgrade the Butterworth terminal and depot, a key part of the nationwide rail system.

With clogging highways besides the steep seasonal air fares, more travelers have opted to board the KTM train, especially its ETS route which links the north to the south, with the railway concessionaire headquarters in KL Sentral, as the hub.

Earlier, Wong spoke of the potential that Prai on the mainland, can become the state's next frontier in tourism.

It holds tremendous potential to flourish as a leading destination for eco-tourism and religious festivals up north, he said.

Speaking at the Penang International High Pole Lion Dance Invitational Championship dinner at the Holiday Inn & Suites in Juru, Wong said Prai's nature and cultural diversity offer a blend of nature, heritage and spirituality.

 “Seberang Perai’s lush countryside coexists harmoniously with vibrant temples and places of worship, blending nature, culture, and community in a uniquely compelling way. With sustained strategic planning and strong promotional efforts, I am confident that Prai will shine even brighter on the tourism map."

Among the crowd-pulling events in Prai, are the upcoming Penang International Marathon, Heritage Day celebrations, Chingay Parade, Butterworth Fringe Festival, Nibong Tebal Festival and Kepala Batas Festival. - November 11, 2025.