February start date for RTS not a delay, says Loke

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook has clarified that the RTS Link is not delayed, despite the announcement that operations would commence in mid-February 2027. He emphasized that the project's physical construction will be finished by December 31, with additional time required solely for thorough safety evaluations and system tests.

Both nations concurred that initiating the service in February 2027 would allow ample time for proper implementation of all safety measures. Loke stated that the stations, as well as customs, immigration, and quarantine facilities in both countries, have already been completed. He further explained that the period from October to December will be dedicated to testing the integration of crucial systems, including signaling, passenger management, train operations, and cross-border coordination.

The exact opening date will be announced upon receiving final approval from the transport authorities of both countries. The RTS Link will link Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North in Singapore, boasting a peak capacity of up to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction, with the travel time between the two stations projected to be approximately five minutes.