The future of travel between Malaysia and Singapore is about to change dramatically. But here's where it gets exciting: the first train set for the highly anticipated RTS Link project has finally arrived in Johor, marking a pivotal moment in its development. This isn't just a train delivery; it's the beginning of a new era in cross-border connectivity.
On Saturday, November 15, Train Set 02 made history as it was carefully transported to the Wadi Hana Depot in Johor Bahru, signaling the start of a critical testing and commissioning phase. This four-car train embarked on its journey from the CRRC Rolling Stock Centre in Batu Gajah, Perak, on November 12, covering a distance of 541 kilometers at an average speed of 70 km/h. The train’s arrival at midnight, carried by four low-loader trailer trucks, was the culmination of a meticulously planned operation.
And this is the part most people miss: Dr. Ahmad Marzuki Ariffin, CEO of RTS Operations Pte Ltd (RTSO), emphasized that the transportation of this train was no small feat. Every detail, from safety protocols to traffic management and weather conditions, was carefully considered to ensure the train’s safe arrival. Along the way, the train made stopovers in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and at the Kempas Toll for thorough safety inspections, including re-inspections of all hook-up points to prevent any transit-related issues.
This milestone marks the project’s transition into the pre-operational phase, where extensive system testing and integration will ensure the train and its infrastructure meet stringent safety standards and operate seamlessly. But here's where it gets controversial: while the project promises to revolutionize travel, some critics question its environmental impact and long-term sustainability. What do you think? Is the RTS Link a step forward or a potential concern?
RTSO collaborated closely with CRRC to secure a smooth route from the factory to the depot and worked with MRT Corp to ensure the site was prepared safely. Depot site safety has been a top priority, especially given the need for stable ground to support the heavy cranes used to lower each 32-tonne coach onto the tracks—a process that began on Saturday morning.
The RTS Link service will operate with a total of eight train sets, each consisting of four coaches. The first stage involves delivering four train sets to the Wadi Hana Depot, which will serve as the central maintenance facility and operational hub. The remaining four sets are expected to arrive in phases by December 2025.
Spanning four kilometers, the RTS Link will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore, with completion scheduled for December 2026. Operations are set to begin in early 2027, with projections indicating it will carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. But here's the real question: will it live up to the hype, or are there challenges ahead that we’re not fully considering?
RTSO, a joint venture between Prasarana RTS Operations Sdn. Bhd. and SMRT RTS Pte Ltd, is responsible for owning, designing, building, and financing the operational assets of the RTS Link, including the trains, tracks, and systems. As this project moves forward, it’s not just about connecting two cities—it’s about shaping the future of regional transportation. What are your thoughts on this transformative project? Let’s start the conversation!
