Johor bahru: The first phase of trials for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link train project is slated to commence this December, albeit without passenger involvement, as announced by Transport Minister Anthony Loke. The RTS trains are anticipated to arrive at the Wadi Hana Depot by mid-month.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke mentioned that the initial train would be delivered to the depot within the next two weeks. If the schedule is adhered to, the public can expect to see the train in motion during the trial phase in December. However, the trains will remain closed to the public as essential processes, including system integration and safety tests, need to be finalized before full operation begins.
Loke shared these updates during a site visit to the RTS Link project at the Immigration, Customs and Quarantine (ICQ) Complex in Bukit Chagar. He confirmed that the structural work for both the Bukit Chagar Station and the ICQ Complex building has been fully completed. Key project components have shown significant progress, with the RTS Link Depot reaching 90% completion, Bukit Chagar Station at 73%, and the ICQ Complex at 76.8%.
According to Loke, the RTS Link, which will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru to Woodlands North in Singapore, is on track for completion by December 31, 2026, with full operations expected to begin in January 2027. Loke emphasized the complexity of the project, involving cooperation between two countries, and committed to monitoring progress every three months to address any challenges effectively.
Meanwhile, RTS Operations Pte Ltd (RTSO) CEO Dr. Ahmad Marzuki Ariffin reported that all systems and operational works for the RTS Link Project have reached 65% progress and remain on schedule. The system is currently at a critical phase, with the first train due at the Wadi Hana Depot mid-month. This train, originating from the Singapore Rail Test Track, will be followed by three more train sets from Batu Gajah arriving at the Johor Bahru depot later this month. The project includes eight train sets, each comprising four coaches.
Dr. Ahmad Marzuki highlighted the smooth progression of the project, attributing it to the close coordination and monitoring by both the Malaysian and Singaporean governments. He noted that no issues have arisen to disrupt the project's timeline, thanks to the full cooperation from all involved parties.
Regarding the trial run, Dr. Ahmad Marzuki stated that fault-free test runs are anticipated next July, with comprehensive system integration tests continuing through December 2026. This period will be crucial for implementing tests involving multiple agencies, including customs, immigration, and security from both countries.