The Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is a transformative cross-border rapid transit system connecting Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and Woodlands, Singapore. Spanning approximately 4 kilometers, this light rail transit (LRT) system aims to significantly alleviate the persistent congestion at the Johor-Singapore Causeway, one of the world's busiest land borders.
Key features of the RTS Link include:
Connectivity: It will link Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru directly to Woodlands North station in Singapore. The Woodlands North station will also provide seamless interchange with Singapore's Thomson-East Coast MRT line.
Capacity: Once operational, the RTS Link is designed to carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, with a projected daily ridership of about 40,000 passengers.
Journey Time: The train journey between the two stations is expected to take a mere five minutes.
Co-located CIQ: A unique aspect of the RTS Link is the co-location of Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) facilities at both the Bukit Chagar and Woodlands North stations. This means passengers will clear both Malaysian and Singaporean immigration at their point of departure, ensuring a seamless and efficient clearance process upon arrival.
Progress: As of mid-2025, the project is making steady progress, with civil infrastructure works largely completed on both sides. Track installation and system integration are well underway, and the first of eight trains has been unveiled and is undergoing testing.
Operation: The RTS Link will be operated by RTS Operations Pte Ltd (RTSO), a joint venture between Malaysia's Prasarana Malaysia Berhad and Singapore's SMRT Corporation Ltd.
Target Completion: The RTS Link is targeted to commence passenger service by December 2026.
The RTS Link is more than just a transportation project; it's seen as a catalyst for economic growth and closer ties between Malaysia and Singapore, aiming to ease daily commutes and foster greater collaboration.