Nearly half of Singaporeans aged 35 to 44 plan to shift over S$250 monthly spending to JB as RTS Link nears

A recent survey conducted by BlackBox Research has revealed that Singaporeans aged 35 to 44 are most likely to redirect a significant portion of their monthly spending to Johor Bahru (JB) once the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link becomes operational. Nearly half (43%) of respondents in this age group anticipate spending over S$250 monthly in JB, surpassing any other age group. Following this group are those aged 45 to 54 (37%), 18 to 34 (29%), 55 to 64 (24%) and 65 and above (23%).

The survey also indicates that the inclination to shift spending across the border increases with income levels. While 23% of respondents earning less than S$4,000 per month plan to spend more than S$250 monthly in JB, this increases to 39% among those earning between S$4,000 and S$6,999, and 51% among those earning S$7,000 or more. This suggests that mid-career professionals and high earners are the most significant commercial threat, as they direct a larger share of their spending to JB.

Moreover, the intention to shift spending to JB is more prevalent among employed respondents. Approximately 70% of those earning below S$4,000 per month plan to do so, as opposed to 88% of those earning between S$4,000 and S$6,999, and 87% of those earning S$7,000 or above. This trend underscores the growing potential of JB as a consumer hub driven by the convenient five-minute journey provided by the RTS Link.

Businesses in Singapore have been preparing for the anticipated shift in consumer spending patterns. A joint study by the Singapore Business Federation, Restaurant Association of Singapore, and Singapore Retailers Association predicts that Singapore residents may direct an additional S$1.05 billion in annual spending to JB. While JB visitors are also expected to spend more in Singapore, at around S$756 million a year, this amount remains approximately S$290 million less than the projected expenditure by Singapore residents in JB.