SINGAPORE: Johor and Singapore are stepping up collaboration in the transport sector, with a strong focus on enhancing cross-border mobility and driving sustainable economic growth for both countries.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who is currently on an official visit to the republic, said discussions with Singapore’s Acting Minister for Transport, Jeffrey Siow, centred on the progress of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project, slated to begin operations in January 2027.
“Our talks touched on the physical progress of the project, operational scheduling, fare structure, and the integration of public transport systems between Johor and Singapore,” he said in a statement today.
Among the proposals discussed was a plan to coordinate the operating hours and increase the number of cross-border buses from the five major operators – SBS Transit, Causeway Link, SMRT Buses, Transtar Travel, and AC7 buses.
“This would involve starting services earlier than the current 5am schedule to alleviate congestion and ensure smoother traffic flow across the Causeway and at the immigration complexes,” he said.
Another key proposal was the introduction of a cross-border e-hailing service, aimed at offering more flexible and demand-driven transport options.
“This initiative could not only reduce congestion along major routes but also create new income opportunities for local drivers. It could be a catalyst for a safer, more user-friendly, and competitive transport system, while strengthening integration between both countries’ public transport networks,” Onn Hafiz said.
The meeting also explored the possibility of a feasibility study on establishing a ferry service between Tuas and Johor as an alternative mode of cross-border transport.
“This study will assess actual demand and identify the requirements and potential impact of such a service, complementing existing systems like the RTS Link and land routes,” he said, adding that the proposed ferry route could ease dependency on the Causeway and the Second Link, while providing more efficient and comfortable travel options.
Onn Hafiz reaffirmed the Johor government’s commitment to supporting the development of efficient and people-friendly transport infrastructure.
“May this meeting pave the way for more structured joint planning efforts that will benefit the people and promote regional economic prosperity,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
