MOT Mulls Adding Komuter Train Alongside RTS Link In Johor

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has announced intentions to launch a Komuter train service alongside the full functioning of the Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) on Jan 1, 2027.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke explained that the Komuter service will be integrated with the RTS Link Station in Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru. This station is also part of the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Tracking Train Project, which runs beneath the RTS station.

Loke went on to say, "Komuter services are currently available in Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas. Southern regions, such as Johor Bahru, have yet to benefit from the service. There is currently an electric train service (ETS) between Gemas and JB in Johor, and connecting this track to the RTS line will allow inhabitants of Senai, Kluang, and Kulai to use the Komuter service to travel to Bukit Chagar and then transfer to the RTS to travel to Singapore."

The announcement was made at a press conference following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build a pedestrian bridge connecting Coronation Square and the Bukit Chagar RTS Link Station. This project is part of a larger initiative to turn the Bukit Chagar area into a significant public transportation hub in Johor, which coincides with the station's involvement in the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link.

Loke also addressed a proposal by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi to build a multi-tiered Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system to relieve congestion in Johor Bahru's city centre. The Minister confirmed that the government would rigorously evaluate this plan to ensure it complements the city's integrated public transportation strategy.

Loke did also provide an update on the RTS Link project's development, stating that construction of the rail infrastructure had achieved 70.45% completion as of March 31, while superstructure work on the Bukit Chagar Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (ICQ) Complex was at 7.02%.

Additionally, a new multi-story 'Park 'N Ride' facility with 1,000 vehicle parking spaces is being built at Bukit Chagar particularly for RTS Link passengers, supplemented by an additional 700 parking spaces at Coronation Square, which is only 400 metres from the station. This totals 1,700 parking spaces designed to accommodate the expected influx of commuters.