KUALA LUMPUR: The construction of the Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) rail infrastructure project between Johor Baru and Singapore has reached 83 per cent progress by the end of July 2024, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said the RTS Link system, which is scheduled to begin operations on Jan 1, 2027, is on track.
"The system installation by RTS Operations Systems Sdn Bhd (RTSO) is expected to be implemented by the end of this year.
"The completion of this rail infrastructure will also enable RTSO to start the system installation works that include trackwork, rolling stock, signalling systems and power supply and distribution," he said at a press conference after witnessing the parking space sale and purchase agreement signing between Malaysia Rapid Transit System Sdn Bhd (MRTS) and Coronade Properties Sdn Bhd here today.
He said the construction of the customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) complex in Bukit Chagar was also progressing as scheduled with the construction of the substructure of the building having been completed and building construction works being actively carried out.
"Access to agencies that will operate at the CIQ complex to install equipment and systems is expected to start in August 2025," he said.
Meanwhile, he said the government was aware of the increasing traffic congestion in Johor Baru city and the Transport Ministry was studying a traffic distribution plan for the Iskandar Malaysia region.
"Through cooperation with the local authorities, this initiative will further complement the infrastructure development around Johor Baru as well as improve the overall traffic situation throughout the city and surrounding areas.
"This initiative includes the development of ground public transport that will be improved, allowing direct continuity to the CIQ complex in Bukit Chagar and the International Ibrahim Business District (IIBD)," he said.
Loke said the choice of entry road for vehicles to enter the CIQ complex is through Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Jalan Tebrau, Jalan Jim Quee and Jalan Tunku Azizah.
"To overcome this issue, the government is prioritising an investment of more than RM200 million in public transport infrastructure around Bukit Chagar which will not only meet current demand but also take into account future developments," he said.
Taking into account the future increase in the number of RTS Link daily passengers, he said public support facilities such as adequate parking facilities should be improved — MRT Corp will build a new multi-storey Park 'N Ride parking facility at Bukit Chagar for RTS Link passengers, including 1,500 parking lots.
Through the agreement, Coronade Properties will provide 781 additional car and motorcycle parking lots specifically for RTS Link passengers at Coronation Square, located 400 metres from Bukit Chagar Station.
"A pedestrian bridge directly connecting Coronation Square to the CIQ complex will also be built by Coronade Properties so that RTS Link users can enjoy this facility in the future.
"All the facilities built to complete the RTS Link service infrastructure will be carefully designed to ensure passengers can enjoy a smooth travel experience from Malaysia to Singapore, and vice versa," he said. — Bernama