SINGAPORE/JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) project has recently completed a successful final phase of its Off-Site System Integration Test (OSIT).
The RTS Operations (RTSO) team shared on a Facebook post on October 30, 2025, that this milestone was achieved through close cooperation between Malaysian and Singaporean stakeholders. This can be seen as a showcase of the strengthening cross-border partnership between the two countries.
A “full-dress rehearsal” for the RTS Link
The OSIT is essentially the ultimate system trial because it serves as a large-scale test designed to ensure that every critical component of the RTS system works seamlessly together. From the trains and signalling systems to platform screen doors and communications, each element has been tested to make sure they operate smoothly and safely as one integrated network.
RTSO described the test as a kind of “full-dress rehearsal” for the entire line, simulating real-life operating conditions before actual service begins.
The programme first started in December 2024 at the Singapore Rail Test Centre (SRTC). Since then, significant achievements have been made, with the first train being introduced in April 2025, followed by dynamic testing in July 2025. Teams from both countries have worked closely at the SRTC to help ensure that every part of the system meets stringent safety and reliability standards.
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RTSO’s emphasis on teamwork
RTSO emphasised that this achievement is not just about technology, but it’s also a reflection of teamwork between Malaysia and Singapore; the success of OSIT shows the commitment, transparency and discipline of everyone involved, from engineers on the ground to the project’s leadership teams.
In their statement, RTSO also extended their thanks to the transport ministries of Malaysia and Singapore, Land Transport Authority (LTA), Agensi Pengangkutan Awam Darat (APAD), Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation (MRT Corp), and shareholders SMRT Corporation Ltd and Prasarana Malaysia Berhad, along with key partners CRRC Corporation, Siemens, Jacobs, MSI Global, and Sapura. This further demonstrates how the entirety of this work was a product of multiple partnerships coming together.
After the completion of this milestone, the project will now move forward to the next critical phase of on-site testing and commissioning. This will likely take place at the actual RTS stations and tracks connecting Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore. This final phase will be critical to determine the readiness of the system in preparation for the opening of the long-awaited RTS Link.
Why this matters for Singapore
For many Singaporeans, the RTS Link is more than just another transport project. It represents a long-awaited solution to a problem that has plagued thousands of Singaporeans for many years. The Causeway congestion has been a perennial issue, and the completion of this endeavour will hopefully help mitigate that.
Furthermore, the completion of OSIT means the system has passed one of the toughest integration hurdles, paving the way for smoother and safer operations when the line opens. It also reflects Singapore’s broader goal of fostering stronger regional connectivity while promoting sustainable, public transport-driven mobility.
The project also symbolises something deeper beyond the convenience it would offer: collaboration and trust between two neighbouring nations working towards a shared future.
As RTSO put it, this milestone marks a confident step toward making the “breeze through borders” vision a reality. With testing now shifting on-site, commuters in both Singapore and Johor Bahru can look forward to seeing the next exciting phase of progress unfold — bringing the region one step closer to a seamless, cross-border commute by the end of 2026.
