Singapore has agreed to Malaysia’s request to suspend the construction of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link until 30 September 2019.

Minister Khaw Boon Wan signed the agreement with Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke on 21 May 2019 which also states that Malaysia will have to pay Singapore abortive costs of $600,000 by July 2019.

During the suspension of the RTS Link project, Malaysia will be able to decide if it wants to continue with the RTS Link, or propose changes to the project which Singapore will consider. Should the Malaysia choose to terminate the project, Malaysia will have to reimburse Singapore for the costs incurred in fulfilling its RTS Link obligations.

Both Singapore and Malaysia also recognises the urgent need to alleviate traffic congestion at the Johor Bahru – Singapore Causeway which sees 300,000 crossings daily.

In a Facebook post, Mr Khaw wrote, “I remain optimistic that the project could resume in due course. The cross-border congestion is real and only a decisive project like the RTS can make a material difference to the current situation.”