JB to SG border by train

Cross border travel between Johor and Singapore is an essential daily routine for thousands of commuters, students, and travellers. For many years, the Johor Singapore Causeway has experienced heavy congestion, especially during peak hours and public holidays. To improve connectivity and reduce traffic pressure, both governments have introduced a modern rail solution that aims to make border crossings faster and more efficient.

At present, cross border train services are operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) through the Shuttle Tebrau service between Johor Bahru Sentral and Woodlands Train Checkpoint. Once the RTS Link begins operations, which is targeted for December 2026, it will become the main rail connection between Malaysia and Singapore, replacing the existing KTM shuttle service.

KTM Shuttle Tebrau

Source: Dollars and Sense

At present, the only train service operating between Johor Bahru and Singapore is the Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) Shuttle Tebrau. This short cross border train connects Johor Bahru Sentral with Woodlands Train Checkpoint. It is a popular choice among daily commuters because it offers a fast and direct journey across the Causeway.

Service Details

Useful Information

• Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during peak hours and weekends.
• It is recommended to book tickets in advance through official KTM channels.
• Passengers must complete immigration procedures before boarding.
• The service is expected to cease operations around 2027, after the RTS Link becomes fully operational.

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How to Travel from JB to Singapore by KTM Shuttle Tebrau

Source: bus online and ticket

The Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) Shuttle Tebrau is currently the fastest train option between Johor Bahru and Singapore. Below is an updated step by step guide for Malaysian travellers.

Step 1: Book Your Ticket Online

Purchase your KTM Shuttle Tebrau ticket online through the official KTM website or mobile app.

Tickets from Johor Bahru Sentral to Woodlands Train Checkpoint cost RM 5 one way and $5 (From SG)

It is strongly recommended to book in advance because tickets sell out quickly, especially during weekends, public holidays, and peak commuting hours. Over the counter purchases are limited and often unavailable on busy days.

Step 2: Arrive at JB Sentral

Travel to JB Sentral by Grab, taxi, or local bus. If you are coming from other parts of Johor Bahru, you may take a bus from Larkin Sentral to JB Sentral.

Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your departure time.

Step 3: Proceed to Gate A

Inside JB Sentral, head to Gate A, which is the departure gate for the KTM Shuttle Tebrau service.

The boarding gate opens 30 minutes before departure and closes 10 minutes before the train leaves. Late passengers will not be allowed to board.

Step 4: Complete Malaysian Immigration Clearance

After passing the boarding gate, prepare your passport. Your passport acts as your boarding pass and will be scanned at the Automated Control Gate.

Proceed downstairs via the escalator for immigration clearance. You may use either:

• Manual immigration counters
• Automated e gates, if eligible

Step 5: Board the Train to Singapore

After clearing immigration, wait at the designated waiting area until boarding begins.

Once announced, proceed to the platform and board the train.

The train ride across the Causeway takes approximately five minutes.

Step 6: Clear Singapore Immigration

Upon arrival at Woodlands Train Checkpoint, disembark and follow the signs to the immigration hall.

Complete Singapore immigration clearance at either the manual counters or automated gates.

Step 7: Continue Your Journey in Singapore

After immigration clearance, proceed via the overhead bridge to access:

• Bus services
• Taxi stand
• Connecting transport options

You may then continue to your destination within Singapore.

Useful Information

• Your passport must have at least 30 days validity before travelling.
• There is no need to print your ticket. Your passport will be used for verification and boarding.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the gate closing time.
• Tickets sell out quickly during peak hours, so early booking is highly recommended.
• Keep your passport accessible at all times during immigration procedures.

Upcoming: Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link

Source: Business Times

The future of cross border train travel between Johor and Singapore is the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS Link). This modern rail system will connect Bukit Chagar Station in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North MRT Station in Singapore. The RTS Link is designed to provide a faster, more efficient, and higher capacity alternative to road travel across the Johor Causeway. Once operational, it is expected to improve daily commuting and significantly reduce traffic congestion at the border.

Service Details

Useful Information

• The RTS Link will become the main rail connection between Johor and Singapore once it begins operations.
• The system is built to handle high passenger volume during peak hours.
• Immigration procedures will be completed before departure, allowing smoother arrival at the destination.
• It will provide a more predictable and reliable option compared to buses and private vehicles.

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Will KTM Be Involved in the RTS

Source: Bus Online Ticket

KTM will not operate the RTS Link once it begins service. The RTS Link is managed by a dedicated joint venture company formed by the governments of Malaysia and Singapore. When the RTS becomes fully operational, KTM will continue to focus on domestic rail services within Malaysia. The current Shuttle Tebrau trains are expected to be redeployed for local routes after cross border operations end.

Useful Information

• KTM will continue operating regular train services across Malaysia.
• The RTS Link will fully replace KTM Shuttle Tebrau for cross border rail travel.
• Travellers should look to the RTS Link for JB–Singapore train services once it launches.

Comparison: KTM Shuttle Tebrau and RTS Link

Source: Bus Online Ticket

Currently, the Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) Shuttle Tebrau is the only train service operating between Johor Bahru and Singapore. However, the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link will gradually replace it once operations begin in December 2026. While both services offer a short journey time of about five minutes, the RTS Link is designed with much higher capacity and modern automated technology to support larger passenger volumes and improve efficiency.

Useful Information

• KTM Shuttle Tebrau remains the only train option until the RTS Link begins service.
• The RTS Link will become the primary and long term rail connection between Johor and Singapore.
• The RTS system is built to handle significantly higher passenger demand, especially during peak hours.
• Travellers should expect a more modern and efficient commuting experience with the RTS Link.

Future of JB–Singapore Train Services

Source: Malay Mail

At present, KTM operates the only train service between Johor Bahru and Singapore, connecting JB Sentral to Woodlands Train Checkpoint. This remains the sole rail option for cross border travel. Starting from December 2026, the RTS Link will take over as the main rail system between the two cities. With its modern infrastructure, higher passenger capacity, and automated technology, the RTS Link is designed to improve efficiency and provide a smoother and more reliable daily commuting experience between Johor and Singapore.