As nations across the globe push for faster, more efficient rail systems, Southeast Asia is emerging as a formidable player in the high-speed rail (HSR) race. While traditionally known for its bustling cities and rich cultural heritage, the region is now carving a name for itself with modern, high-speed rail infrastructure that promises to transform how people travel across countries and cities.
From Indonesia’s groundbreaking bullet train to Malaysia’s upcoming rail projects, Southeast Asia is rapidly accelerating toward a future of high-speed connectivity.
Indonesia’s Whoosh, the First Bullet Train in Southeast Asia
Indonesia recently captured global attention with the launch of its Whoosh high-speed train, marking a significant milestone as Southeast Asia’s first operational bullet train. Officially known as the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail, this train connects the capital Jakarta with the city of Bandung in West Java.
It covers the 142-kilometer distance in just about 40 minutes, a dramatic improvement over the typical three-hour journey by car.
Operating at speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph), the Whoosh train is a product of collaboration between Indonesian and Chinese companies. The project is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative and utilizes CR400AF trains from China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), customized for Indonesian conditions.
The Whoosh not only stands as a symbol of technological advancement but also represents a shift in how infrastructure projects are planned and executed in the region.
Thailand’s Ambitious Plan
Indonesia is the only country on this list that actually has something to show. The rest are still in planning or development stage, such as Thailand. The Thai government is currently working on a high-speed rail link that will connect Bangkok with Nong Khai, a city on the border with Laos. This rail line is part of a larger trans-Asian railway network that may eventually link Thailand with China via Laos.
Though still under construction, the trains are expected to reach speeds of around 250 km/h (155 mph) and will significantly reduce travel time across the country. The project aims to enhance economic cooperation, trade, and tourism by providing a faster, more reliable transport option between key urban centers.
Viet Nam’s Express Railway
Vietnam is also in the early stages of developing its own high-speed rail corridor. The proposed North-South Express Railway is a mega infrastructure project that will stretch over 1,500 kilometers from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. If completed, the trains could reach speeds of 300 km/h (186 mph), cutting the travel time from over 30 hours by conventional rail to just under six hours.
While the project is still being evaluated for its economic feasibility and financing options, it signals Vietnam’s ambition to modernize its transport sector and support its fast-growing economy with better infrastructure.
Malaysia and Singapore
One of the most talked-about HSR projects in the region was the Malaysia-Singapore High-Speed Rail. Designed to cut the travel time between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to just 90 minutes, the line was expected to operate at speeds of around 320 km/h (199 mph). However, due to political and financial concerns, the project was suspended and eventually canceled in 2021.
Despite the setback, both countries have expressed continued interest in reviving the plan in the future. If resurrected, it would be a game-changer in terms of regional connectivity, commerce, and tourism between two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic economies.
