RM60m bridge links RTS Bukit Chagar to KTM Komuter
What happened
The Malaysian government approved a RM60 million project to build a direct link bridge between the RTS Link's Bukit Chagar station and the KTM Komuter JB Sentral station in Johor Bahru. The bridge will connect the two rail systems.
Construction is expected to take 12 months, according to the announcement. The project was reported by Paul Tan's Automotive News on August 19, 2026.
Why it matters
The RTS Link is a cross-border rail project connecting Johor Bahru and Singapore. A direct link between the stations will cut transfer times and improve the commuter experience.
Previously, passengers had to navigate between the stations without a dedicated connection. This bridge fills that gap.
Impact on Malaysia
The project improves transport connectivity for daily commuters crossing the Johor-Singapore border. It is expected to boost the efficiency of the RTS Link, a major economic corridor.
Better rail connectivity may also encourage more people to use public transport, easing road congestion in the Johor Bahru area.
Investment and timeline
The RM60 million investment shows Malaysia's commitment to completing the RTS Link project. The 12-month construction timeline suggests a relatively quick implementation once work begins.
No specific start date was given, but the approval signals progress on the broader RTS Link infrastructure.
Broader context
The RTS Link is a joint project between Malaysia and Singapore, aimed at easing traffic on the Causeway. The Bukit Chagar station is the Malaysian terminus, and the new bridge will integrate it with the existing KTM Komuter network.
This integration is part of a larger effort to create a more unified rail system in the Johor Bahru area, benefiting local residents and cross-border travelers.
What's next
The bridge is expected to be completed within a year, subject to construction schedules. Once operational, it will provide a direct pedestrian link, likely reducing travel time for commuters.
Authorities are expected to release further details on the project's timeline and design in the coming months.