Singapore’s most anticipated cross-border infrastructure is no longer just a plan on paper. As of mid-2025, the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link has achieved more than 56% completion, with the first train unveiled and offsite testing under way.

Set to launch by December 2026, this 4-km shuttle will transform regional connectivity — moving up to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction in just a 5-minute ride between Bukit Chagar (JB) and Woodlands North (SG).

For companies and workers in Singapore, this development is a game-changer. Here's why.

RTS Link: Key Progress Highlights

• First driverless train unveiled in Johor in June 2025. It’s one of eight, each capable of transporting 600 passengers.
• Offsite testing has begun at Singapore’s Rail Test Centre; on-site commissioning begins late 2025.
• By the time operations begin in 2026, the RTS Link will become one of the world’s most efficient cross-border urban rail systems.

What This Means for Singapore Companies and Workers

1. Easier Cross-Border Commutes = Expanded Talent Pool

The RTS Link will finally solve the long-standing congestion issue on the Causeway, which currently sees over 300,000 daily crossings.

• Singapore employers can now tap into a larger labour pool from Johor Bahru — especially for roles in logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and F&B.
• Professionals based in Singapore can more easily pursue opportunities in JB, especially with Johor's booming property and industrial sectors.

2. Impact on Retail and Consumer Spending

Analysts from DBS estimate that Singapore may see a 3–4% drop in retail sales due to spending shifts toward Johor — equating to S$1.5 to S$2.1 billion in potential annual leakage.

While some retailers may feel the pinch, businesses can adapt by:

• Creating cross-border loyalty programmes
• Offering exclusive in-store experiences
• Partnering with JB retailers for joint promotions

3. Property and Business Expansion Opportunities

Johor’s Bukit Chagar region has already seen 20% annual growth in property values in anticipation of RTS demand.

• Singapore firms may establish satellite offices or logistics hubs in Johor to take advantage of lower costs and seamless access.
• Cross-border collaboration — especially within the proposed Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) — will unlock new investment and innovation opportunities.

4. Logistics, Operations, and Transport Sector Growth

The RTS Link isn’t just about passengers — it will create thousands of jobs related to:

• Transport infrastructure
• Maintenance, safety, and rail operations
• Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) support
• Transport planning, scheduling, and AI integration

How Singapore Employers Should Prepare

• Expand hiring strategies to include cross-border candidates
• Adapt benefits policies to accommodate RTS commuters
• Assess business models for expansion into Johor to benefit from cost savings and local demand

What Singapore Professionals Can Do

• Explore cross-border job opportunities that offer better work-life balance or cost-of-living advantages
• Upskill in transport planning, regional compliance, or bilingual support roles
• Build regional expertise as demand for cross-border business, logistics, and people flow increases

FAQs: Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link

Q1: When will the RTS Link be fully operational?

The target launch date is December 2026, following full testing and commissioning between Q4 2025 and Q3 2026.

Q2: How fast is the journey?

The trip between Bukit Chagar and Woodlands North will take around 5 minutes, with trains running every 3.6 minutes during peak hours.

Q3: How many people can it transport?

Each train carries about 600 passengers, with a system capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour per direction.

Q4: Will it reduce Causeway congestion?

Yes. Authorities estimate that the RTS will absorb at least 35% of daily peak-hour traffic, significantly reducing travel stress and wait times.

Q5: What industries benefit most?

Retail, logistics, F&B, transport, healthcare, and construction will see the biggest impact — but nearly all sectors will feel the ripple effects.

Looking to Tap Into New Cross-Border Opportunities?

At Reeracoen, we help Singapore-based employers and job seekers stay ahead of game-changing shifts like the RTS Link.

👉 For Employers: Hire skilled professionals across borders
👉 For Job Seekers: Find roles in transport, logistics, and regional operations

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References

Ministry of Transport Singapore – “Singapore and Malaysia commemorate the unveiling of the first Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link train”

Land Transport Authority – “Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link Project”

Channel NewsAsia – “First RTS Link train unveiled: 600 passengers, 10,000 pphpd”

The Business Times – “RTS Link 56% completed; service starts by Dec 2026”