【News】6-Min Border Crossing! Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link [Opening 2026]

Note: The train photo shown was taken in Kuala Lumpur and does not depict the actual RTS Link train. It is for illustrative purposes only.

🚆【Scheduled to Open in 2026】New Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS: Only 6 Minutes Travel Time!

The upcoming Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, scheduled to open in 2026, is an international high-speed rail shuttle connecting Bukit Chagar Station in Johor Bahru, Malaysia with Woodlands North Station in Singapore. The total length is just 4 km, and the entire journey takes only 6 minutes.

✅ A New Way to Cross the Border

According to a report by Shin Min Daily News (Singapore) on June 21, 2024, Malaysia’s MRT Corp announced on Facebook:

“Ever wondered how fast it will be to cross the border with the new RTS? Just 6 minutes!”

The RTS is expected to significantly ease congestion at immigration checkpoints by offering a high-capacity and efficient transport system that can carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction.

RTS Link Overview (Based on Official Info from MRT Corp)

🛃 Immigration Clearance at the Departure Station Only!

A major feature of the RTS Link is the co-location of immigration facilities for both Malaysia and Singapore at the departure station. This means:

✅ You complete both countries’ immigration procedures before boarding.

✅ Upon arrival, you can simply exit the station — no further checks!

Unlike the current system, there’s no need to queue for immigration after arrival. This enables a truly seamless border-crossing experience.

✅ JB–SG Border Crossing: RTS vs Current Transport – Comparison of Time & Stress

🚍 A. Bus (as of 2024)

  • Route: Larkin Bus Terminal (JB) → Queen Street Bus Terminal (SG), various lines available

  • Travel Time: Typically 1.5–2+ hours (up to 2.5+ hrs during peak hours)

  • Cost: Around RM3–RM5 (excluding MRT fare in Singapore)

  • Note: Immigration waiting time is the biggest bottleneck (can exceed 1 hour) 🚶‍♂️ B. Walking + MRT (via Causeway)

  • Route: Walk across Causeway → Woodlands Checkpoint → board MRT

  • Travel Time: 20–40 min walking + total ~1–1.5 hrs

  • Cost: MRT fare only (~SGD1.20)

  • Note: Heat, congestion, vehicle fumes, and safety concerns on foot 🚗 C. Car or Grab

  • Route: Private car / Grab / Taxi

  • Travel Time: Normal: 45 min – 1 hr / Peak: 1.5+ hrs

  • Cost: Grab ~RM30–70 (depends on time and route)

  • Note: Consider immigration queues, parking, VEP tolls, etc. 🚉 D. Current Train: Shuttle Tebrau (KTM)

  • Route: JB Sentral ↔ Woodlands Train Checkpoint

  • Travel Time: ~5 min ride + border clearance

  • Frequency: ~1 train per hour (can sell out early during peak periods)

  • Cost: JB to SG: RM5 / SG to JB: SGD5

  • Note: Advance booking recommended; limited runs; no early morning/late night trains 🚄 RTS Link (Opening in 2026)

  • Travel Time: ~6 minutes ride + immigration at departure station only

  • Frequency: Every 3.6 minutes during peak hours

  • Cost: To be announced (expected around SGD5)

  • Note: Immigration done before boarding; just exit on arrival. Reliable, fast, and convenient. 🌍 Summary: A 6-Minute International Rail That’s Redefining Borders

The RTS Link is more than just a mode of transport — it’s infrastructure that transforms Johor Bahru and Singapore into a seamlessly connected daily living zone.

From business and education to commuting and tourism, this project is expected to significantly strengthen ties between Malaysia and Singapore in every aspect of life.

📚 Sources

  • MRT Corp Official Page
  • Official Facebook post by MRT Corp – “RTS Link JB–SG” (June 20, 2024) https://www.facebook.com/share/1c34Tre4iT/
  • Official Facebook post by Shin Min Daily News (新明日报), June 21, 2024
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