RTS Upgrades On Track, Cross-Border E-Hailing Needs Singapore’s Nod - Loke

Transport Minister Anthony Loke today gave an update on efforts to ease cross-border congestion in Johor Bahru, while also addressing proposals for e-hailing services between Malaysia and Singapore.

Responding to questions in Parliament as he wrapped up the 13th Malaysia Plan debate in the Dewan Rakyat, Loke said the government is investing heavily in infrastructure around the Bukit Chagar RTS Link station to ensure smoother traffic flow once the rail line begins service.

Among the upgrades are a new access road leading directly to the station, a pedestrian overhead bridge linking JB Sentral to the ICQ Bukit Chagar complex, and dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones to prevent bottlenecks. 
"A 1,500-bay multi-storey Park & Ride is also under construction, targeted for completion in 2027, alongside another 781 parking spaces at Coronation Square specifically for RTS users," he stated.

To support commuters in the meantime, the ministry together with the Johor government is expanding the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) scheme, adding 13 new feeder routes from JB Sentral to key residential and commercial hubs. 

Loke also revealed plans for KTMB’s upcoming Komuter Selatan service, which he said would provide faster and more affordable daily travel while offering a greener alternative to driving.
Switching to the issue of cross-border e-hailing, Loke made clear that Malaysia is ready to discuss the idea but cannot move forward without Singapore’s agreement.

“In principle, we are open to it. I even raised this with former Singapore Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, but at the time Singapore was not prepared to have that conversation

“This cannot be done unilaterally. Both sides must agree,” he said.
On enforcement, Loke noted that JPJ recently seized four Singapore-registered cars operating illegally as e-hailing vehicles in Johor Bahru, as well as five Singapore tour buses caught without valid licences. The cases are now before the courts.

“We hope discussions with Singapore can continue, and that one day this idea of cross-border e-hailing can be realised,” he added.