Malaysia Looking at LRT to Improve Johor Bahru’s Urban Transit Network

Malaysia looking at LRT or a tram-bus network to ease traffic congestion in Johor Bahru. This initiative will improve urban mobility, benefiting residents, workers, and visitors across the region. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Malaysia Looking at LRT and Tram-Bus to Improve Connectivity

The Malaysian government is considering a light rail transit (LRT) or tram-bus system for Johor Bahru’s transport network. This effort seeks to reduce congestion and enhance daily commutes across the state.

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Officials plan to invite private sector proposals within four months to determine the best implementation strategy. Johor’s transportation and infrastructure executive, Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, confirmed this development.

Evaluating the Costs and Feasibility of the Project

Authorities will assess the feasibility of both transport options, focusing on cost, efficiency, and execution strategies. The LRT network could require RM20 billion ($4.3 billion), while the autonomous rapid transit (ART) system may cost RM7 billion ($1.5 billion).

Funding could come from private investors or a government-private partnership, depending on financial viability. If completed, Johor’s LRT would be Malaysia’s third, following projects in Klang Valley and Penang.

Malaysia Looking at LRT as RTS Link Completion Approaches

Planners intend to synchronize the new transit system with the RTS Link, which will connect Woodlands North MRT station in Singapore to Johor Bahru’s Bukit Chagar hub by 2026.

The Malaysian government supports the ART project but remains open to LRT proposals. Final decisions will depend on technical feasibility, financial sustainability, and implementation timelines.

Ensuring Efficient Passenger Flow and Last-Mile Connectivity

Experts emphasize the importance of an efficient feeder system for the RTS Link to avoid commuter bottlenecks. My Mobility Vision founder, Wan Agyl Wan Hassan, stressed the need for smooth passenger dispersal.

He pointed out that cities like Copenhagen and Malmö successfully implemented cross-border transit by prioritizing last-mile connectivity. Without proper systems, car dependency could increase congestion.

Transforming Johor Bahru into a Public Transport-Oriented City

Johor’s current urban structure presents challenges for public transport adoption. Low-density residential areas and limited bus services create obstacles to efficient mobility and commuter convenience.

Associate Professor Walter Theseira from Singapore University of Social Sciences highlighted the need for transit-oriented development. Without integrated planning, new transport systems risk underutilization.

Boosting Economic Growth with Enhanced Connectivity

The Johor-Singapore Causeway remains one of the busiest land crossings, with daily traffic exceeding 430,000 people. A well-planned LRT or ART system could alleviate congestion at major entry points.

Authorities also aim to link the new transit system with Wadi Hana ART station, connecting it to Iskandar Puteri, Tebrau, and Skudai. Improved connectivity would support economic growth within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.

Malaysia’s Vision for Sustainable Public Transport Development

Efforts to enhance Johor Bahru’s transport infrastructure align with Malaysia’s long-term goals for sustainable mobility. Policymakers must ensure urban planning supports public transit to maximize investments.

The final decision on LRT or ART implementation will shape Johor Bahru’s transport future. Authorities remain committed to delivering a system that efficiently serves residents, commuters, and businesses.

Source: www.straitstimes.com

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