- SINGAPORE
Zoom Between JB And Singapore In 5 Minutes: RTS Link Set To Launch By End 2026
Cross-Border Commutes Get A Major Upgrade With 8 Sleek Trains, Express Immigration Clearance, And A Super-Speedy 5-Minute Ride!
A Game-Changing Commute from Singapore to JB
Say goodbye to traffic jams and hello to a streamlined cross-border experience. The Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is gearing up to transform daily commutes when it launches in December 2026. The 4km shuttle connects Woodlands North in Singapore to Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru in just five minutes—no mid-journey delays, no bottlenecks.
Fast, Frequent, and Fully Automated Trains
Manufactured by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), each RTS train is driverless, runs at a top speed of 80km/h, and features four cars with a total capacity of up to 1,000 passengers at peak hours. The trains are equipped with 126 fixed seats, 16 pop-up seats, and will operate from 6am to midnight daily. Expect one train every 3.6 minutes during peak periods.
Convenient Immigration Clearance at Departure Station
No more queueing up after your ride—immigration and customs checks will be done before you board. For instance, passengers at Woodlands North will clear both Singapore and Malaysia customs before getting on the train, making it a smooth exit upon arrival at Bukit Chagar.
Built with Accessibility and Security in Mind
RTS Link trains are the first in Singapore and Malaysia to offer a hearing induction loop system for passengers with hearing aids. Onboard safety includes cameras and boxed-in seating areas to limit the hiding of suspicious items. The open-loop fare gates will accept multiple payment options for ease of entry.
Track Progress: Construction and Testing
As of mid-2025, construction is 56% complete. One train has arrived in Singapore for system testing, four are being assembled in Malaysia, and the remaining three are in production. Offsite testing starts July 2025 and will run for about four months before track testing begins.
What About Fares?
Fares have yet to be finalized, but Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke said they’ll be set at a level comparable to motorcycle border crossings—including fuel and tolls.
Looking Ahead
With 8.9 million people having traveled on the Shuttle Tebrau since its inception, the RTS Link is poised to become the preferred option for cross-border travel.
Bonus: The current Shuttle Tebrau service will end within six months of the RTS Link launch.
Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to Johor for a shopping spree, or making a quick weekend getaway, the RTS Link promises speed, comfort, and convenience like never before.
Why Little Steps Loves It:
We’re big fans of anything that makes family travel easier—and the RTS Link is a total game-changer. No more long car queues at the Causeway or sleepy kids stuck in traffic! With immigration cleared before boarding and a five-minute train ride, this is the hassle-free cross-border solution we’ve been dreaming of.
Who It's Perfect For:
This high-speed connection is perfect for families making regular trips to Johor Bahru for shopping, dining, or weekend fun. It’s also great for working parents who commute between both cities, or teens attending school across the border. Basically, anyone looking to save time and skip the stress.
What Else:
Aside from the lightning-fast journey, the RTS Link is packed with thoughtful features—like accessibility aids for hearing-impaired passengers and onboard safety enhancements. With driverless trains, frequent service, and integrated customs clearance, it blends modern tech with family-friendly convenience in all the right ways.
Where To Find It:
- Woodlands North Station To Bukit Chagar
- https://www.mymrt.com.my/projects/rts-link/
Additional Info:
Main Image Credit: Kevin Lim @ The Straits Times
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