The opening of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link connecting Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and Singapore has been postponed to February 2027, according to Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke. Originally slated for January 2027, the one-month delay aims to provide a buffer period for final testing, safety certifications, and approvals from regulatory authorities in both countries.
Loke emphasized that while the infrastructure is substantially complete, the project remains in a critical phase involving system commissioning, signalling integration, and comprehensive evaluations. The Malaysian Land Public Transport Agency and Singapore's Land Transport Authority must grant the necessary technical and safety approvals before commercial operations can commence. The project remains on track for completion by the end of December 2026, with the February start date allowing for a smoother and safer launch.
The delay has drawn mixed reactions among commuters, many of whom had expected the RTS Link to open on January 1 as previously indicated by Malaysian officials. However, Loke expressed confidence there would be no further delays, noting that the additional time was deliberately factored into the schedule. RTS Operations (RTSO), the appointed operator of the cross-border service, also cited the need for third-party safety certification as a reason for the postponement.
In addition to the RTS timetable update, Malaysian officials have announced several transport enhancements in Johor Bahru designed to improve connectivity in anticipation of increased commuter flow. Notably, Jalan Jim Quee—a key street near the RTS Link’s Bukit Chagar terminus—will be closed to private vehicles starting December 20, ahead of the previously planned 2027 timeline. The road will be transformed into a dedicated public transport hub featuring 20 bus bays, an increase from the current 11.
The state's BAS.MY public bus fleet will see a significant expansion from 162 to 230 buses to reduce waiting times and encourage greater ridership. Johor’s Bus Mufafakat Johor scheme will introduce a shuttle service linking Bukit Chagar station with major local destinations, including Mid Valley Southkey, Kota Jaya, and the Sheraton Johor Bahru hotel. These shuttles will operate at approximately ten-minute intervals, with free rides for Malaysians and paid passes for foreigners.
Johor state officials view the new timeline as an opportunity to fine-tune traffic management and last-mile connectivity around Bukit Chagar. This comes amid ongoing efforts to address urban congestion through a mix of short- and long-term strategies, including plans for an Elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit system to further expand public transportation in the region.
Despite recent political developments involving Minister Loke’s resignation announcement related to a separate matter, he reaffirmed that the RTS Link’s progress would continue unaffected. The project’s completion relies principally on contractors and technical teams, and both the Malaysian and Singaporean transport authorities remain committed to ensuring the system’s readiness for safe operations.
Overall, while the delay has been met with some disappointment, officials stress that prioritizing comprehensive safety and operational readiness will ultimately benefit commuters and bolster cross-border connectivity between Johor Bahru and Singapore.