SINGAPORE – Traffic congestion at the Johor-Singapore border dominated discussions at the 12th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat session, where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong reaffirmed their commitment to easing daily travel pressure between the two neighbouring nations.
The talks placed particular emphasis on the Johor-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS Link), which both leaders described as a transformative solution for the Causeway bottleneck.
Expected to be completed by December next year, the RTS Link will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore, providing a quick five-minute rail journey for up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
PM Anwar noted that the project remains one of the strongest examples of practical cooperation between the two governments.
PM Wong echoed this sentiment, highlighting the RTS Link as a symbol of modern connectivity between Singapore and Malaysia.
Construction works for the project have reached significant milestones. The structural completion of the Bukit Chagar Immigration, Customs and Quarantine (ICQ) Complex earlier this year has paved the way for the installation of systems and interior finishing.
The depot and stations are also reported to be progressing steadily, with contractors working towards full operational readiness ahead of the deadline.
Beyond the major rail initiative, both leaders also reviewed the need to enhance cross-border taxi operations and regulate e-hailing services that frequently serve travellers between Johor and Singapore.
Transport ministries from both countries are now in the final stages of discussions to update policies and streamline services that have long been requested by commuters.
PM Anwar emphasised that any improvements to cross-border mobility will directly benefit thousands of Malaysians and Singaporeans who rely on daily travel for work, business, or family commitments.
He expressed confidence that the adjustments under review will lead to more efficient movement at checkpoints.
Another key topic during the session was the MY-SG English Volunteer Programme (MSEVP), an initiative aimed at promoting youth engagement and strengthening people-to-people connections.
PM Anwar expressed appreciation to the Singapore Government for its contribution to the programme, acknowledging its positive impact in fostering cultural and professional exchanges.
PM Wong, meanwhile, reiterated Singapore’s support for collaborative educational and social programmes, recognising them as essential in nurturing long-term goodwill between both nations.
As the session concluded, both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision of a future marked by smoother travel, stronger bilateral ties, and continued cooperation.
With the RTS Link approaching completion and transport initiatives progressing, improvements at the border are expected to be felt well before the rail system officially launches.
