Singaporeans and Malaysians, our ultimate dream of a hassle-free cross-border day trip is getting closer than ever!
With the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link targeted for launch by early January 2027, a media tour of the brand-new Bukit Chagar Station in JB has offered a sneak peek at what's to come. From lightning-fast e-gates to direct air-conditioned linkways to our favourite JB malls, here is everything you need to know about the upcoming travel upgrade!
1. Clear Immigration In Just 7 Seconds!
Say goodbye to standing in endless queues at the Causeway checkpoint! The Bukit Chagar Integrated Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (ICQ) complex will feature around 100 e-gates.
For travellers using Malaysia’s QR code passport system and app-based immigration clearance, passing through the e-gate can take as little as 7 seconds.
Best of all, thanks to the co-located clearance system, you only need to process immigration once at your departure station before boarding the train. Once you arrive at Bukit Chagar, you can walk straight out and begin your JB food hunt!
2. Next-Gen Security Scanners & 25-Minute Station Target
To keep baggage moving smoothly, Bukit Chagar Station is equipped with:
- 18 high-speed luggage scanners
- 9 AI-powered body scanners (utilising millimetre-wave technology to pinpoint concealed items in seconds)
- Dedicated lanes for travellers who are travelling light without heavy check-in bags!
Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRT Corp) targets a 25-minute total processing time—covering ticketing, security screening, dual-country immigration clearance, and walking up to the train platform. The actual train ride across the Strait of Johor takes just 5 minutes!
3. Air-Conditioned Walkway Straight To City Square & Komtar JBCC!
No more navigating hot streets or roadside traffic after getting off the train! The station features a 409-metre covered, air-conditioned pedestrian linkway equipped with travellators.
It directly connects the Bukit Chagar RTS terminal to:
- Johor Bahru City Square
- KOMTAR JBCC
- JB Sentral
The linkway is built to seamlessly handle up to 10,000 passengers at any one time, making your weekend shopping and café-hopping runs easier than ever.
4. Family-Friendly Amenities
For families travelling with little ones, the station has been built with spacious, modern restrooms and dedicated nursery and nursing rooms, ensuring a comfy environment for parents on the go.
Who else can’t wait to skip the Causeway jams and ride the RTS Link into JB? Share this exciting news with your weekend travel buddies, and save this article for your future JB itinerary planning!
