THE "TRAIN ACROSS TIME" MURAL
At GSM Chicken Station, Segamat
Largest Train Mural in Malaysia
About the "Train Across Time" Mural
Located on the exterior wall of GSM Chicken Station on Jalan Abdullah in Segamat’s old town, the “Train Across Time” mural depicts a 1954 steam train meeting a 2024 modern train. It creates a beautiful tableau that bridges time, narrating the changes of the ages and the progression of the times.
The mural’s total size is 43.8 meters in length and 10.4 meters in height. It is funded by GSM Chicken Station and is specially painted by renowned mural artist Mr. Tan Jian Siong from Muar. Trains were chosen as the mural’s theme primarily because the train station is one of the landmarks of Segamat.
The Development Process of the "Train Across Time" Mural
The historic railway bridge has become a tourist attraction, and the new train station is now operational. By recreating the old Segamat train station, which was completely demolished, in the form of a mural, it connects the oldest and newest train station, creating a unique railway-themed journey through Segamat for visitors.
The team spent several months searching for old photos of the station as reference and finally found one taken on July 28, 1954, from the official archives of KTMB. This impressive artwork, painted by renowned artist Mr. Tan Jian Siong, depicts a 1954 steam train meeting a 2024 modern train, symbolizing the rich history and forward-looking vision of Segamat’s railway heritage.
This mural is more than just an artwork; its intricate details, including authentic wooden railroad ties and classic train station elements, serve as a catalyst to draw visitors and reconnect locals with Segamat’s rich cultural heritage, celebrating the past while looking forward to the future.
OUR MILESTONE
Must-Visit Tourism Spot in Segamat
Inspiration from Our Founder
The Story Behind the Mural
Overcoming Challenges and Creating a Landmark
Mural Unveiling by Honored Guests
Honored by Malaysia Book of Records
The “Train Across Time” has quickly become a significant tourism attraction, drawing visitors from near and far. This mural not only enhances the cultural landscape of Segamat but also revitalizes the local economy by attracting tourists eager to witness this breathtaking blend of history and art.
Our founder, Ghai Swee Ling was inspired by the nostalgic memories of the old Segamat train station and the desire to bring a piece of that history back to life. Ghai Swee Ling meticulously selected a photograph from the Malayan Railway’s website, taken on July 28, 1954. This treasured image, capturing the bustling activity of the past, became the blueprint for the mural.
The mural concept was born from a desire to capture the essence of Segamat’s railway history. Mr. Tan Jian Siong, a renowned mural artist from Muar, brought this vision to life with his intricate brushwork. The mural juxtaposes a black-and-white depiction of the 1950s steam train station with a vibrant portrayal of the modern intercity train station of 2024.
Creating this mural was not without challenges. Ghai Swee Ling and her team faced numerous obstacles, yet she remained steadfast, contributing financially and physically to the project. With support from the Segamat local government, community representatives, local businesses, family, and friends, the mural was successfully completed. Today, this artwork stands as a bridge between the past and future, blending Segamat’s history with modernity and becoming a new symbol and landmark for Segamat.
The “Train Across Time” Mural was officiated by Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke, in the presence of Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, YB Liew Chin Tong; Railway Assets Corporation CEO, YBhg. Dato’ Azhar bin Ahmad; and Member of the Johor State Legislative Assembly, YB Ng Kor Sim.
Recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records, this mural holds the title of the Largest Train Wall Mural. This recognition stands as a testament to Segamat’s vibrant heritage and its commitment to preserving local history through art.