Malaysia-Singapore Cross-Border Taxis Quota Rises To 500

Malaysia and Singapore are set to expand and liberalise their cross-border taxi services to meet growing demand and tackle illegal operators, according to Transport Ministries from both countries.

The number of licensed taxis allowed to operate across the border will gradually rise from 200 to 500 per country, starting with an initial increase of 100 taxis. 

Priority will be given to larger and premium vehicles, targeting business travellers and groups.

One major change is that taxis will now be able to drop passengers anywhere in the other country, ending the long-standing rule that restricted Malaysian taxis to Ban San Street Terminal in Singapore and Singaporean taxis to Larkin Sentral in Johor Bahru.

Pick-ups, however, will remain at designated points, although the ministries plan to expand these for e-hailing app bookings over time.

The move follows increased enforcement against illegal cross-border pickups in Singapore earlier this year, including at Changi Airport and Gardens by the Bay. 
The authorities said the new measures will include stronger insurance coverage for passengers, faster claims processing, clearer taxi identification, and a unified regulatory framework for cross-border e-hailing platforms.

The announcement came after a meeting between Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Singapore Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow at the 12th Malaysia–Singapore Leaders’ Retreat. 

Both ministers acknowledged the rising demand for convenient cross-border travel and stressed the need to modernise services while curbing illicit activity.

Beyond taxis, the two countries also plan to improve cross-border bus services, particularly for tourists travelling beyond Johor Bahru. 

"A wider range of options will make buses a more attractive choice for travellers," the authorities said.

The ministries further stated that the reforms reflect a shared commitment to enhancing connectivity and the cross-border commuting experience, and they pledged to implement the changes as quickly as possible.