Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong gathered on Thursday to witness a momentous milestone in the development of the Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) project. This landmark event marks a symbolic “connection” between Malaysia and Singapore, showcasing a major advancement in this ambitious infrastructure venture.
The ceremony highlighted the completion of a crucial span โ the point where the project’s marine viaduct, stretching between Johor Bahru and Singapore, joins together. This significant progress underscores a new era in the transportation and economic collaboration between the two nations.
This occasion is particularly notable as it represents the first time the two leaders have convened at the project site. Their presence not only emphasizes the significance of the RTS Link project but also reinforces the strong commitment of both countries to this multi-billion ringgit initiative.
During the event, Anwar and Lee commemorated their nations’ dedication to the project by signing a plaque. This symbolic gesture reflects the successful progress of the construction, which has reached a completion level of 65% as of December 31, 2023, adhering to the planned schedule.
Key figures such as Transport
Minister Anthony Loke, Singapore Acting Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat, and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi also graced the ceremony with their presence, further signifying the project’s importance at the highest levels of government.
The RTS Link project, a testament to engineering and bilateral cooperation, encompasses a commuter train network spanning approximately 4 kilometers. It features two pivotal stations, one at Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and the other at Woodlands North in Singapore. This state-of-the-art transport link is designed to accommodate up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. With an estimated journey time of just five minutes between the two stations, the RTS line promises to significantly enhance the commuting experience between Singapore and Johor Bahru.
Scheduled for completion in December 2026, the RTS line is more than just a transportation project; it is a symbol of the intertwined futures of Malaysia and Singapore. It is expected to play a critical role in facilitating smoother, faster cross-border movement, thus bolstering economic and social ties between the two neighboring countries.
Furthermore, the RTS project, in tandem with the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone initiative currently under discussion, is anticipated to herald a new chapter in the bilateral relations of Malaysia and Singapore. These projects represent not only a leap in infrastructure development but also a bridge towards greater economic integration and cultural exchange between the two nations.
