Singapore and Malaysia bolster ties with rail, special economic zone

Commuter line to ease border congestion while 3,500 sq. km area to promote investment

The RTS Link, seen here in an artist rendering, will have the capacity to handle 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. (Singapore Land Transport Authority)

MAYUKO TANI, Nikkei staff writer

July 21, 2024 16:00 JST

SINGAPORE -- Singapore and the southern Malaysian state of Johor are strengthening cross-border economic cooperation, with an upcoming commuter rail line set to boost the flow of people and goods and plans in the works for a vast special economic zone.

The Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is about 80% complete and is scheduled to start operating in late 2026. Essentially a shuttle between two stations, the line is only 4 kilometers long but will help to ease congestion at border crossings.