Loke: RTS Link will strengthen Malaysia-Singapore relationship
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the project, which is set to begin operations on Jan 1, 2027, will significantly ease traffic congestion at the Johor Causeway while improving the lives of thousands who commute across the border daily.
"This is not just about launching a train. It's about what it represents — two nations coming together again to build something greater than ourselves," he said at the launch of the first RTS Link train at the Singapore Rail Test Centre in Tuas, today.
He said such a large-scale bilateral undertaking involved complex discussions and negotiations, but both sides had demonstrated the commitment needed to bring the project to life.
"The RTS Link is a realisation of a long-term vision — to reduce congestion, save time and provide better connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore, whether for work, family or opportunity," he said.
Also present was acting Singaporean Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow.
Loke said the RTS Link was also a core enabler of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), helping facilitate seamless movement of people and skilled labour across both countries.
"Without RTS Link, I don't believe the JS-SEZ would be as impactful or transformative. This rail line is a crucial part of that vision," he said.
Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) confirmed that major civil works have been completed for the Marine Viaduct, Bukit Chagar Station, and Wadi Hana Depot as of May 31.
Interior works at Wadi Hana Depot are now 80 per cent complete and targeted for full completion by October.
At Bukit Chagar Station, the roof façade installation is progressing steadily, while the Immigration, Customs and Quarantine (CIQ) complex has reached 90 per cent in structural work, with interior progress at 45 per cent.
"The next major milestone is dynamic testing of the entire RTS train system, scheduled for May next year.
"This phase will involve trial runs from Wadi Hana Depot to Bukit Chagar to validate readiness for full operations," said MRT Corp.
With all key components progressing on schedule, MRT Corp is confident that the project will be fully operational by the end of December 2026.
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