Johor political row threatens RTS Link passenger flow

A political standoff between Johor's state government and Malaysia's federal administration is casting a shadow over the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, potentially leaving future passengers stranded.

During the launch of Johor's first commuter shuttle train service on June 16, caretaker Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi publicly pressed Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke regarding delays to the state's proposed elevated autonomous rapid transit (ART) system. The ART, a tram system running on rubber tires, is seen as a cheaper alternative to light rail and is crucial for dispersing passengers arriving from Singapore via the RTS Link.

"If this project can be expedited, the federal government will deserve huge credit," Onn Hafiz stated, adding a pointed remark about potential blame should issues arise. This exchange underscored the fault lines emerging ahead of Johor's July 11 state election, pitting the federal government led by Pakatan Harapan (PH) against the state machinery under Barisan Nasional (BN), both vying for credit on infrastructure promises.

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If this project can be expedited, the federal government will deserve huge credit. But I worry should there be any hiccups; I hope you would also claim the discredit.

State officials warn that congestion in Johor Bahru will worsen if the RTS Link, set to open in 2027 and capable of carrying 10,000 passengers per hour, launches before a supporting dispersal system is operational. Despite federal approval for the RM10 billion ART project in May, Onn Hafiz questioned its progress, noting it was tabled to the Cabinet in 2024. He expressed concern that the ART might not be ready until 2030 or 2031, creating a significant gap between the RTS Link's opening and the availability of adequate public transport.

Loke assured that transport projects in Johor would proceed regardless of political differences, but the dispute highlights a fraying federal-state relationship with tangible consequences for tens of thousands of commuters relying on the cross-Causeway link. The potential delay risks exacerbating traffic woes for residents and visitors alike.

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Is it true that the letter of award has yet to be issued? Because I worry that when the RTS is ready, the main mode of public transport to disperse passengers will be ready only by 2030 or 2031.