Prasarana, SMRT Delay JB-Singapore Rail Link to Feb 2027
The cross-border rail system, a joint venture between Malaysia's Prasarana Malaysia and Singapore's SMRT Corp, now targets a February 2027 launch due to safety certification and regulatory approval needs.
RTS Link Opening Postponed
The Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link will begin passenger service in February 2027, a month later than planned. RTS Operations (RTSO), the system’s operator, announced the revised timeline on Friday (Oct 2), citing the need for additional time.
This extended period is required to obtain independent safety certification and secure final regulatory approvals from both Singapore and Malaysian authorities. The initial target for commencement was January 2027.
Testing and Infrastructure Progress
RTSO expects to complete all system tests and trial runs by December 31, 2026. Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport, the project’s grantors, confirmed they had received the updated schedule. They noted that the system's infrastructure in both countries is substantially complete and remains on track.
The 4 km light-rail system will use eight trains manufactured by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) Zhuzhou Locomotive.
Project Scope and Joint Venture
The RTS Link will connect Woodlands North station in Singapore with Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru. The project, first unveiled in 2010, commenced construction in 2021 following earlier delays. Bukit Chagar station was completed on August 18, and Woodlands North station on September 4, both earlier this year.
RTSO is a joint venture, with Malaysian public transport provider Prasarana Malaysia holding a 52 per cent stake and Singapore rail operator SMRT Corp owning the remaining 48 per cent.
Boosting Cross-Border Economy
The RTS Link is designed to significantly boost connectivity between Singapore and Johor Bahru, with a peak capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. Officials project it could reduce congestion on the Causeway by up to 35 per cent.
Singapore’s Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow and Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke have both highlighted the project’s role in strengthening bilateral ties and supporting the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ), driving shared economic and social benefits for both nations.
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