Excitement Builds for RTS Link: A Sneak Peek from TikTok

Singapore, Singapore Aug 26, 2026 ALN: As the RTS Link nears completion, one TikTok user shared a preview of what commuters on both sides of the causeway have to look forward to when the high-speed train opens early next year.

In the video he posted last week, Dexter (@dexterkuanby) noted that it will soon be "super easy" to go to Johor Bahru. This sentiment reflects a growing anticipation among residents in Singapore and Malaysia, as the RTS Link promises to revolutionize cross-border travel in the region.

The RTS Link, or Rapid Transit System Link, is a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Singapore and Malaysia. The project is part of a broader initiative to improve transportation links in Southeast Asia, where rapid urbanization and population growth have led to increased demand for efficient travel solutions. The RTS Link is expected to facilitate smoother movement of people and goods, thereby fostering economic ties and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Dexter's video begins by showcasing the "ton of counters" that will make clearing customs a breeze. This feature is particularly important given the historical congestion that has plagued the Causeway, which is a vital artery for commuters and trade. The ease of customs clearance is expected to significantly reduce waiting times, making the prospect of spontaneous trips to Johor Bahru more appealing.

He then moves on to show a train cabin, which certainly looked spacious. The interior design of the train has been a topic of interest, as it aims to provide a comfortable travel experience for passengers. With modern amenities and a focus on passenger comfort, the RTS Link is designed to cater to both daily commuters and tourists alike.

"Within five minutes, you reach JB Central, super duper fast," he noted. This rapid transit capability is a game-changer, as current travel options often involve long waits and traffic jams. The RTS Link will cut the end-to-end journey between Singapore and Malaysia to just six minutes, significantly enhancing the feasibility of daily commutes and weekend getaways.

He was also awed at the train station itself, calling it "marvellous" and noting how many safety barriers it has, as well as the gigantic ceiling fans to cut through the humidity. The design of the station incorporates modern architectural elements while ensuring passenger safety and comfort. The emphasis on safety features is particularly relevant in the context of increasing passenger volumes and the need for efficient crowd management.

The state-of-the-art luggage scanning also received praise from him, as did the spacious walkways and walkalators similar to those at Sentosa. The integration of advanced technology in the RTS Link reflects the commitment to providing a seamless travel experience. The use of walkalators and spacious walkways is intended to accommodate the high volume of passengers expected to use the service, further alleviating congestion at peak times.

He showed the ticket machines and reminded viewers to download the RTS app, which will allow trips to be faster and more convenient. The app is expected to enhance the overall user experience by providing real-time updates, ticket purchasing options, and travel information. Dexter joked that the space for the information counter is so large, people can go dancing in front of it, highlighting the open and inviting atmosphere that the station aims to create.

The "five-star hotel toilets" also got special mention from Dexter, as he predicted they would not easily get smelly. This attention to restroom facilities underscores the importance of passenger comfort and hygiene in public transportation systems, which can often be overlooked in favor of other amenities.

He ended the video by asking viewers what they think, and whether they would try it out for travelling to JB and back. This interactive approach resonates with the younger demographic, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where user engagement is key. The excitement generated by such previews is likely to contribute to a positive public perception of the RTS Link, encouraging more people to consider using the service once it launches.

Excitement has certainly been building up, and the RTS Link will not only provide a faster travel option but also play a crucial role in addressing the persistent traffic problems on the Causeway between the two countries, which is used by approximately 300,000 people daily. The introduction of this high-speed train service is expected to alleviate some of the congestion that has become a common frustration for commuters, particularly during peak travel times.

The project is now in its final stages of integration testing. This phase is critical to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly and that the service will be safe and reliable for passengers. The meticulous testing process reflects the commitment to quality and safety that underpins the RTS Link project.

The RTS Link has the capacity to transport around 10,000 passengers each way. This high capacity is essential given the anticipated demand, especially during weekends and holidays when many Singaporeans travel to Johor Bahru for shopping, dining, and leisure activities. The project is budgeted to cost S$3.24 billion, with Malaysia taking on a 39% share of the costs while Singapore will shoulder the remaining 61%. This financial arrangement indicates a collaborative approach to infrastructure development, showcasing the commitment of both nations to enhance bilateral ties.

"This project is much more than building bridges—it is also about building a better future for both countries, strengthening our longstanding friendship and creating more win-win opportunities for our businesses and citizens in areas of common interest and mutual benefit," said former Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat in 2024. This statement encapsulates the broader implications of the RTS Link, which extends beyond mere transportation to encompass economic growth and regional cooperation.

Nearly half of Singaporeans aged 35 to 44 plan to shift over S$250 monthly spending to JB as RTS Link nears. This statistic highlights the potential economic impact of the RTS Link, as it is likely to stimulate cross-border commerce and tourism. As more people find it convenient to travel to Johor Bahru, local businesses in both countries stand to benefit from increased foot traffic and spending, further reinforcing the interconnectedness of the Singapore-Malaysia relationship.