RTS Link Johor Singapore Delay: How to Plan Your Trip Until February 2027

If you had pencilled in a cross-border day trip on the new RTS Link this December, you will need a new plan. The RTS Link Johor Singapore delay pushes the opening back to February 2027, so travellers who were counting on a five-minute train hop will be using the existing routes a little longer. Here is what has changed, what has not, and how to organise the Malaysian side of your trip in the meantime.

Key takeaways

• The RTS Link is now expected to open in February 2027 instead of the end of 2026, subject to safety certification and regulatory approval.
• Until then, Johor Bahru and Singapore remain connected by the existing Causeway and Second Link routes, so allow generous buffer time.
• A rental car is the easiest way to cover the Klang Valley leg of the journey on your own schedule, with free delivery in the Klang Valley from NEXX.

What exactly has been delayed?

The RTS Link is a short, 4 km shuttle line that will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North in Singapore. Each crossing is expected to take about five minutes, and trains are designed to carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. Immigration clearance is planned to happen once, at the station where you board, so there is no second queue when you arrive.

The opening target has moved from the end of 2026 to February 2027. The reasons given are practical ones: final trial runs, independent safety certification and the last regulatory approvals all need to be finished first. Most of the infrastructure on both sides is reported to be largely complete, so this reads as a schedule adjustment rather than a cancellation. Fares have not been announced yet, and details are expected closer to launch.

What this means for your plans

For most visitors, the practical effect is simple: nothing changes today. Whatever you were doing before the announcement, you can still do now. The difference is that the faster, more predictable option will arrive a few months later than hoped.

• Weekend shoppers and day-trippers: keep allowing extra time for border queues, especially on Fridays, Saturdays and school holidays.
• Business travellers: do not build tight meetings around a train that does not yet exist. Treat February 2027 as the earliest possible date and have a fallback.
• Visitors flying into KLIA: you can still combine a Kuala Lumpur stay with onward travel south, just plan the timings with a margin.

Good travel plans do not depend on a single opening date. Build a version that works today, then enjoy the shortcut when it finally arrives.

Use the extra months to see more of Malaysia

A delay can be an opportunity. Instead of rushing straight to the border, many travellers add a few days around Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley first: food trails in Petaling Jaya, hill air at Genting, or a relaxed weekend in Melaka. With your own car, you decide when to leave and where to stop, rather than fitting around bus and train timetables.

NEXX Car Rental covers every budget, from compact Economy hatchbacks such as the Perodua Myvi to Premium SUVs and MPVs for families with plenty of luggage. Delivery within the Klang Valley is free, and you can see the full range on our rates page.

Practical checklist for a southbound trip

• Confirm your passport validity and any entry requirements for the country you are visiting.
• Check the opening date again closer to your travel month, as schedules for new rail lines can still shift.
• Read the NEXX terms and conditions for deposit, insurance excess and driver requirements, and message our team on WhatsApp if your route goes beyond the Klang Valley so we can advise before you book.
• Plan fuel, tolls and rest stops, and avoid driving at the busiest hours.
• Keep a printed or offline copy of your booking details in case your signal drops.

Frequently asked questions

When will the RTS Link open?

The current target is February 2027, moved back from the end of 2026. The final date depends on safety certification and regulatory approvals, so check official announcements before you book anything non-refundable.

Will I still be able to travel between Johor Bahru and Singapore before then?

Yes. The existing land crossings remain open as usual. The delay only affects the new rail shuttle, so allow extra time for queues at busy periods.

Can I rent a car from NEXX for a Klang Valley trip while I wait?

Absolutely. Choose your car on the reservation page, pick your delivery time and book through the form. If you plan to travel further than the Klang Valley, speak to our team on WhatsApp first.

Plan your next trip with NEXX Car Rental

Whether you are stretching your Malaysia stay or waiting for the RTS Link to open, a flexible rental makes the journey easier. Browse the fleet, choose a car that suits your group and message us on WhatsApp at +6010 562 1195 to book. Our team is happy to help you pick the right class and pick-up time.