Rapid transit link between JB & S'pore

Propose rapid transit link between JB & S'pore

The Prime Ministers of Malaysia and Singapore have proposed the joint development of a rapid transit link between Tanjung Puteri, Johor Bahru and Singapore to enhance connectivity between the two countries.

A joint statement issued by Mr Lee Hsien Loong and Mr Najib Razak in Singapore on Monday said it will be integrated with public transport services in both Johor Bahru and Singapore.

For the convenience of commuters, the rapid transit system link will have a single co-located CIQ facility in Singapore with the exact location to be determined later.

The proposed rapid transit system link will be operational by 2018.

Thereafter, Malaysia may consider relocating the KTM Station from Woodlands to Johor.

A joint implementation team will further discuss the implementation details.

According to the statement, the team will complete its works by the end of the year.

It added that the outcome reached by the joint implementation team on the matters discussed should be reflected in a written instrument to be signed by both countries upon approval from their respective governments.

Both leaders agreed that the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station Passenger Terminal building would be conserved given its historical significance and would be a centerpiece for the new proposed development on the site.

In addition, the old Bukit Timah Railway Station building at Blackmore Drive can also be conserved.

Both leaders also discussed bilateral co-operation in the joint iconic project in Iskandar Malaysia.

They agreed that Khazanah Nasional and Temasek Holdings will form a 50-50 joint venture company to undertake the development of the iconic wellness township project in Iskandar Malaysia.

The project will involve the participation of private sectors from both countries.

Both leaders said they look forward to the launching of the project within a year.

-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-