It could be true certain parties are trying to throw away "Melayu" from Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB)

This is not a new issue. More than thirty years ago, there was a proposal made by a "Malay intellectual" who suggested the name of Keretapi Tanah Melayu to be changed to Keretapi Malaysia.

Some responded positively giving reason that we were no longer Malaya, but Malaysia after Sabah and Sarawak joined the federation as part of the country.

Another group responded negatively, disagreed with the proposal, reason being the word Melayu must be maintained for historical factor. They further elaborated if anything related to Melayu were to be deleted, what else does Melayu have?

Don't tell me "I who have nothing!" 

This is almost a reality now as far as ordinary Malays are concerned.

Pleasant response by KTMB

Yesterday, FMT reported that the railway operator Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) dismissed a proposal for the company’s name to be changed for being “outdated”, saying such a move would be unnecessary.

It said KTMB was the name of the company and served to unify its corporate identity, but was not the main consumer brand.

KTMB said while its name had a historical context and heritage, its services had evolved over time to fulfil modern transport needs.

“KTMB, established in 1885, has a rich history that is integral to Malaysia’s development. Its name, Keretapi Tanah Melayu, reflects this legacy. However, as Malaysia has evolved, so has KTMB.

“We have made significant strides in improving our services, such as introducing the Electric Train Service (ETS) and enhancing the KTM Komuter network as well as KTM Intercity, portraying our commitment to modernisation and customer satisfaction,” it said in a statement.

The company welcomed the proposed name change as “thoughtful public feedback”, saying it presented KTMB with the opportunity to clear up any misconceptions.

“While the name Keretapi Tanah Melayu reflects a historical context, KTMB’s services are forward-looking, embracing technological advancements and customer-centric improvements.

“The corporate name preserves its heritage, while service-specific branding addresses contemporary market demands. Our focus remains on moving people and progress, while preserving a name that carries the legacy of a nation,” it said.

KTMB was responding to a letter from a former sports editor, Johnson Fernandez, who suggested that the railway company rename itself in keeping with the times.

Johnson said the name Keretapi Tanah Melayu was outdated since today’s trains were all powered by electricity, while Tanah Melayu referred to Malaya.

End©Permadu


By Fauzi Kadir
Chief Editor

Assistant Editor
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