RM60m bridge links RTS Bukit Chagar to KTM Komuter
What happened
The Malaysian government approved a RM60 million project to build a direct link bridge between the RTS Link's Bukit Chagar station and the KTM Komuter JB Sentral station in Johor Bahru. The announcement was made on August 19, 2026, according to Paul Tan's Automotive News. Construction is expected to take 12 months.
The bridge will provide a direct connection for commuters transferring between the RTS Link and the KTM Komuter services, removing the need to travel between the two stations by other means.
Why it matters
The RTS Link is a key cross-border rail project connecting Johor Bahru and Singapore. A direct link improves the efficiency of the public transport network in the region. Commuters will benefit from shorter transfer times and a more integrated travel experience.
This project addresses a gap in the current infrastructure, as Bukit Chagar and JB Sentral are separate stations. The bridge will enhance connectivity for daily cross-border commuters, many of whom rely on both services.
Impact on Malaysia
The project supports Malaysia's efforts to boost public transport usage and reduce road congestion. It also strengthens Johor's position as a regional transport hub. The investment aligns with broader national infrastructure development plans.
Local businesses and property owners near the stations may see increased foot traffic. Improved connectivity could attract more investments in the Johor Bahru area.
Timeline and funding
The project has a budget of RM60 million, funded by the Malaysian government. Construction is slated to begin soon, with a completion target of 12 months. No further details on the contractor or construction schedule were provided in the source.
The bridge is part of the larger RTS Link project, which is expected to boost cross-border travel. The timeline suggests the link will be ready before the RTS Link's full operations commence.
Commuter benefits
The direct bridge will reduce transfer times for passengers switching between RTS Link and KTM Komuter. It will also improve accessibility for those with mobility challenges, as the bridge will likely include escalators and lifts. Commuters will no longer need to exit and re-enter stations to make connections.
This convenience is expected to encourage more people to use public transport for cross-border travel. It also reduces reliance on private vehicles and taxis for short transfers.
Future outlook
This bridge is one of several improvements planned for the Johor Bahru transport network. Further integration between different rail services is likely as the RTS Link nears completion. The project signals continued investment in regional connectivity.
Once operational, the RTS Link will carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. The new bridge will play a role in ensuring smooth passenger flow at the Bukit Chagar interchange.