Ghosts of the Tracks: Malaysia's Abandoned Train Cars

In Ulu Yam, Selangor, a cluster of abandoned trains has drawn attention, becoming a unique attraction for curious onlookers and local photographers. These derelict vehicles, remnants of Malaysia’s Ampang and Sri Petaling LRT lines, now serve as a site for abandoned places explorers and a testament to the area’s forgotten railway history.

Online Reactions

A 2021 video by the YouTube channel ‘naemJD’ showed the state in which the abandoned train cars were found – stacked in rows with vegetation growing among them.

The user explored the area with two other individuals, and they documented themselves jumping from car to car looking around to take pictures.

Homeless persons appear to have taken refuge in the train, as a mattress and pillow adorned the floor of one of the train cars.

One user left some insight about the trains, claiming to have legally entered the place and spoken to the owner.

(Translation: ‘I have entered this place legally. Behind this graveyard, there is a catfish pond 😂
Had a chat with the owner of this place. He owns the largest no.2 metal cutting company near Malaysia. He bought the carcass because he saw the prospect of making it like a capsule hotel or restaurant.’)

Commentators on another video, by user ‘Heart Patrick,’ wondered why the trains were not repurposed in some way.

Many suggested the place be used as a filming location.

RapidKL’s Response

In 2021, RapidKL, the operator of Malaysia’s light rail transit, addressed the growing curiosity surrounding the abandoned cars after a viral video highlighted the site.

In their statement, they clarified that these trains do not belong to them. They emphasized, “it would not be appropriate for us to make further comments on the matter,” as the trains are not under their responsibility.

A Glimpse into the Past

The train cars date back several decades and once played a crucial role in Malaysia’s transportation network in connecting towns and cities. After being replaced during a buy-back program initiated by Prasarana in 2014, ownership of these old train sets was transferred to China’s CRRC Zhuzhou. Finally, in 2016, the trains were sold to a third party and subsequently stored on private land in Ulu Yam.

As the conversation about the fate of these abandoned train cars continues, one thing is clear: they have ignited curiosity and dialogue among locals and visitors alike. Whether they will be preserved as a piece of Malaysia’s rail heritage or removed remains uncertain. For now, they stand as a reminder of the nation’s rich railway history, inviting exploration and inspiring stories.

Watch the videos here: