Imagine a future where traveling between Johor Bahru and Singapore is faster, smoother, and more efficient. That future just took a giant leap forward. The RTS Link project has reached a monumental milestone with the successful placement of its first train set at the Wadi Hana Depot in Johor Bahru. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just about moving a train—it’s about the meticulous planning, safety measures, and collaboration that went into this achievement. Let’s dive into the details.
On November 15, 2025, Train Set 02 made history as it was carefully positioned onto the tracks at Wadi Hana Depot, marking the beginning of the project’s pre-operational phase. This four-car train set embarked on a 541-kilometer journey from the CRRC Rolling Stock Centre in Batu Gajah, Perak, traveling at approximately 70 km/h before arriving at the depot aboard four low-loader trailer trucks at midnight. And this is the part most people miss: the journey wasn’t just a simple transport—it involved multiple stopovers in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and at the Kempas Toll for comprehensive safety inspections, ensuring every hook-up point was secure.
Dr. Ahmad Marzuki Ariffin, CEO of RTS Operations Pte Ltd (RTSO), emphasized the complexity of the operation. “The delivery of this train signifies our transition into system testing and integration,” he explained. “We’ve worked closely with CRRC and MRT Corp to ensure every step, from route planning to depot preparation, prioritizes safety and efficiency.” But here’s where it gets controversial: with heavy cranes lowering each 32-tonne coach onto the tracks, the stability of the depot ground became a critical concern. How do you ensure such precision without compromising safety? Ahmad Marzuki assured that this has been a priority since day one.
The Wadi Hana Depot, serving as the central maintenance facility and operational hub, is now ready to receive the next train sets for testing and commissioning. In total, eight train sets, each consisting of four coaches, will operate the RTS Link service. The first four sets are already on-site, with the remaining four scheduled to arrive by December 2025. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can this ambitious timeline be met without cutting corners on safety and quality?
The four-kilometer RTS Link, connecting Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore, is set to be completed by December 2026, with operations starting in early 2027. Projected to carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, it promises to revolutionize cross-border travel. But as we celebrate this milestone, let’s not forget the challenges ahead. What do you think? Is the RTS Link project on the right track, or are there potential pitfalls we should be discussing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
