Singapore Considers Expanding Cross-Border Transport Options, Reviews Bus Service Timings
Singapore – Authorities are actively evaluating potential changes to cross-border transportation, including the possibility of allowing ride-hailing services and adjusting the operating hours of bus routes between Singapore and Malaysia. The moves aim to address growing commuter demand and explore new opportunities for transport providers.
currently, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is reviewing a request from Malaysia’s Land Public transport Agency to begin cross-border bus services from Johor Bahru at 4:00 AM, an hour earlier than the current 5:00 AM start time. The LTA stated it is assessing whether earlier bus departures can alleviate morning crowding, while ensuring coordination with Singapore’s local bus and MRT services.
The potential for ride-hailing services to operate across the border is also under consideration. Onn Hafiz, a Malaysian official, suggested in an August 1st Facebook post that allowing ride-hailing could reduce congestion and create income opportunities for Malaysian drivers. He further posited that it could foster a more competitive, user-friendly, and integrated transport system between the two countries.Singapore’s LTA emphasized that any adjustments to the cross-border transport regime will prioritize meeting commuter needs while protecting the livelihoods of Singaporean taxi and private-hire drivers.Currently, SBS Transit operates two cross-border bus services: Service 160 from Johor Bahru Checkpoint (departures starting at 5:00 AM weekdays, 5:50 AM weekends/holidays) and service 170 from Larkin Terminal (departures starting at 5:20 AM weekdays, 5:30 AM weekends/holidays). SMRT operates Service 950 from Johor Bahru Checkpoint to Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange, with Johor Bahru-bound departures at 5:30 AM daily.Data on the starting times for the Singapore-bound SMRT service is not publicly available.In addition to these public operators, several private bus companies also provide cross-border services. The LTA is now discussing with both public and private bus operators the feasibility of earlier start times, potentially with higher fares for those early services.
