Malaysia has committed $1.47 million to study whether the Trans-Borneo High-Speed Rail can become a reality, aiming to enhance connectivity across Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and Kalimantan in Indonesia. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Malaysia has committed $1.47 million to study whether the Trans-Borneo High-Speed Rail can become a reality, aiming to enhance connectivity across Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and Kalimantan in Indonesia.
Source: kuchingborneo.info

High-Speed Rail Proposal Gains Momentum

The Trans-Borneo High-Speed Rail concept emerged in 2015, introduced by former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to Indonesian president Joko Widodo. It resurfaced strongly in 2024 when Brunei’s Brunergy Utama Sdn Bhd presented a $70 billion plan.

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The proposal outlines a 1,600-kilometer route with trains running at 350 km/h. Phase one links Pontianak to Kota Kinabalu, covering key Sarawak cities such as Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri, as well as Brunei’s Bangar and Bukit Panggal.

High-Speed Rail Feasibility Study Underway

Phase two extends into North and East Kalimantan, connecting to Samarinda and Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara. Bukit Panggal in Brunei’s Tutong district is set as the central hub for all 24 stations.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook confirmed that a local consultancy began the 12-month feasibility study in June 2025 under the 12th Malaysia Plan. The study evaluates technical, commercial, socio-economic, and operational aspects, with results expected by Q3 2026.

If successful, the project could rank among Southeast Asia’s largest cross-border transport initiatives. Because Borneo’s rugged terrain poses engineering challenges, current cost estimates stand at $13.3 billion. Supporters emphasize the potential to boost rural development, trade, and regional integration.

Skeptics warn about financial risks, but proponents argue that the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. The feasibility report will determine if the High-Speed Rail advances or remains an unfulfilled vision.

Source: kuchingborneo.info

FAQ

What is the High-Speed Rail project in Borneo?

It is a proposed railway linking Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei, and Kalimantan with trains running up to 350 km/h. Full details are available in official government releases.

How much will the Trans-Borneo High-Speed Rail cost?

The current estimate is $13.3 billion, but actual costs may change based on engineering challenges and design adjustments.

When will the High-Speed Rail feasibility study finish?

The 12-month study began in June 2025, and results are expected by the third quarter of 2026 according to Transport Ministry updates.

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