KTM KOMUTER PINK COACH FOR WOMAN PASSENGER ONLY
In India, for years we are so used to a concept called ‘Ladies coach’ in a train whether it is a local train or intercity but do you know Malaysia’s first coach service for women was launched very recently?
A Ladies coach.
On my last visit to Malaysia, to my joy, I noticed that a ladies coach has been introduced. And since its launch in May 2010, it has been receiving rave reviews from women of all races.
Malaysia’s first coach service for women is marked by a large pink sticker with the message ‘Ladies only at all times‘. The message is written in five languages, to go with the country’s multi-lingual and multi-ethnic culture.
A Ladies coach.
First I wondered what ‘Wanita’ meant in Malay. It looked a mis-spelt Hindi word to me whose meaning is ‘woman’. Then got to know it stands for ‘ladies’ or ‘women’ in Malay as well ! 🙂
I had taken a train from Kuala Lumpur to Seremban and back. I was very happy to travel in a ladies coach; not that the general coaches are as packed as in local trains of Mumbai but it is quite comfortable to be among women.
I know some of the gentlemen would not like it, if middle of the three coach trains is always reserved for ladies in every commuter train. And KTM says it will extend its service to some more stations. Sorry guys, we need our space too. 🙂
Well, this was done because statistics showed that 60% of KTM Komuter passengers were women. The other two coaches are for both sexes.
For ladies it is a relief. On my way I spoke to some of the commuters.
“It provides more privacy & safety to ladies.” First one said.
“Usually the pick pockets are men and foreign workers, the move will help to ensure safety of women.” Another woman had her opinion.
“Now we can freely talk about our shopping, family and relationships” third one winked.
Just like anywhere else, it is not compulsory for women to use the ladies coach. Boys under the age of 12 are allowed in and couples are advised to make use of the regular coach service. But I saw one or two couples sitting in ladies compartment, mainly to have more privacy and comfort to them.
Unlocked sliding door between two coaches but no one misuses the freedom.
The coaches are joined together and the sliding doors between them are not locked. But I did not see anyone crossing over to ladies coach even during peak hours. No one tries to disobey the rules.
I mentioned before also, law & order is quite good in that country.
Waiting for a train to Seremban at platform 6 at ‘Ladies only‘ area. Passengers at stations can identify the special coach via a pink banner at the platform. They are marked on the floor as well.
Underground platform at Kuala Lumpur.
Passengers wait for the train as a crowd but as soon as train approaches, they make a queue and obey the rules. At least women do. 🙂
Have you come across any interesting story/incident about Ladies only thing? We would love to hear about it. Comment section is all yours. 🙂
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