RTS Link first trial phase to begin in December without passengers; still targeted for Dec 2026 completion

The first phase of trials for Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link train project is expected to begin in December without passengers, said transport minister Anthony Loke, reported Bernama. The RTS trains are expected to arrive at the Wadi Hana depot by the middle of this month, Loke said.

“In the next two weeks, the first train will be sent and taken to the depot. If we go according to the schedule, many will get to see the train in motion in December during the first phase of trials. However, the trains won’t be open to the public yet because there are some important processes that need to be followed, including system integration and safety tests, before full operation can begin,” said the transport minister.

Set to connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore, the RTS Link is still targeted for completion by December 31, 2026, to become fully operational by January 2027, according to Loke.

Meanwhile, RTS Operations CEO Ahmad Marzuki Ariffin said that all systems and operational works for the RTS Link Project have achieved 65% progress, and are on schedule.

“The first train will be brought in from the Singapore Rail Test Track, and three more sets of trains that are in Batu Gajah will be brought to the RTS depot in Johor Bahru later this month. Overall, the project involves eight sets of trains, each with four coaches. The project is progressing smoothly because both governments — Malaysia and Singapore — are closely coordinating and monitoring the work that is going on. This enables the project to be completed as scheduled, he said.

Fault-free test runs are expected to be conducted next July until all system integration tests are completed, Ahmad Marzuki said. “July to December 2026 will be a crucial period for the implementation of comprehensive tests, involving multiple agencies, including customs, immigration and security, from both countries,” he said.

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