Johor Bahru:The operational launch date for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link has been set for February 2027, a move that is not expected to affect Johor's investment appeal, especially within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Shahrin Rahmat, CEO of the Johor Economic, Tourism and Cultural Office (JETCO), stated that the decision would more significantly impact the tourism sector and talent mobility rather than investment. He emphasized that the RTS Link would be a significant development in enhancing connectivity, particularly for talent.

He further explained that the RTS Link project is progressing on schedule, with physical construction advancing as planned. RTS Operations Pte Ltd, the project's operator, confirmed that all system tests and trial operations are expected to conclude by December 31 this year, with passenger services commencing in February 2027, a shift from the original January target.

Investors in the JS-SEZ are currently awaiting the Federal Government's announcement of the master plan, particularly focusing on tax relief incentives. This anticipation has resulted in a 'wait-and-see' approach among some investors, pending further details.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mentioned that he and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong would unveil the JS-SEZ master plan and blueprint by the end of the year, which aims to bolster economic cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore. The JS-SEZ has already secured RM132 billion in investments from 2025 to June 2026.