Joint Statement by Singapore and Malaysia on the Johor Bahru - Singapore Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) Project

1.     At Malaysia’s request and in the spirit of bilateral cooperation, Singapore has agreed to suspend the construction of the Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link Project for a period up to 30 September 2019. Malaysia will bear the agreed costs in suspending the RTS Link Project. If by 30 September 2019, Malaysia does not proceed with the RTS Link Project, Malaysia will also bear the agreed costs incurred by Singapore in fulfilling the RTS Link Bilateral Agreement.

2.     Earlier today, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport, Singapore, Mr Khaw Boon Wan and Minister of Transport, Malaysia, Mr Loke Siew Fook exchanged legal documents in Singapore to vary the RTS Link Bilateral Agreement based on the new understanding.

3.     Both Ministers recognised the urgent need to alleviate traffic congestion at the Johor Bahru-Singapore Causeway which facilitates about 300,000 crossings daily.

4.     Malaysia and Singapore will also continue to discuss other affordable and sustainable solutions to address traffic congestion at the border. We will also explore further initiatives, including the use of new technology for enhanced security and checkpoint efficiency.

5.     The Ministers noted the importance for both countries to establish cost-effective, efficient and sustainable transport interconnectivity, as it will foster greater people-to-people ties and generate shared economic and social benefits.