Johor Advances Elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit Plan
Malaysia’s construction and infrastructure sector is preparing for a transformative leap.
The elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit (e-ART) project in Johor Bahru is not simply another transport upgrade; it promises to reshape urban mobility, cross-border connectivity, and regional development.
Three heavyweight consortia, MMC Corp Bhd, DOM Industries (M) Sdn Bhd, WCT Holdings Bhd, Lion Pacific Sdn Bhd, and YTL Corp Bhd, SIPP Rail Sdn Bhd, have now officially submitted proposals to Malaysia’s Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) for this US$1.65 billion undertaking.
Why e-ART Matters for Johor Bahru
At its core, the e-ART system aims to tackle Johor Bahru’s growing transport demands while complementing the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS), set to open in late 2026. The project’s alignment will stretch across three strategic corridors, Skudai, Tebrau, and Iskandar Puteri, with Bukit Chagar as the central interchange. Designed with 32 stations, the network is expected to cost around RM7 billion (US$1.65 billion) and is capable of moving between 5,000 and 12,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
By choosing an elevated design, authorities have sidestepped the congestion risks that plagued the earlier at-grade Bus Rapid Transit concept. The elevated structure ensures smoother flows both on the roads below and along the transit route above, setting the stage for a more efficient commuter experience.
Linking with the Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS
The timing of this project is no coincidence. With the RTS expected to ferry around 10,000 passengers hourly between Bukit Chagar and Singapore’s Woodlands North station, Johor Bahru’s streets could face crippling congestion without a high-capacity feeder network. The e-ART system is designed precisely to absorb and distribute that influx, providing vital last-mile connectivity for residents and commuters.
As transport analysts note: “The RTS link will be a game-changer for Johor’s economy, but its success hinges on the efficiency of supporting transit systems like e-ART.” In essence, this project doesn’t just move people; it safeguards Johor’s mobility future.
Stringent Bidding Requirements
To ensure only capable developers come forward, UKAS has outlined tough eligibility conditions:
- Minimum 30% Bumiputera equity participation
- Proven net worth of at least RM500 million (US$117 million) over the past five years
- Credit lines of RM750 million (US$176 million)
- Experience in delivering a transport or infrastructure project valued at no less than RM500 million within the last two decades
These requirements underline Malaysia’s intent to engage experienced players who can handle the scale, complexity, and urgency of the project.
Alternative Systems Allowed
Although the e-ART system is the flagship concept, UKAS has allowed bidders to propose alternative transit technologies, provided they meet the stringent standards on capacity, coverage, and performance.
This opens the door for innovative solutions that may further strengthen Johor Bahru’s long-term mobility strategy.
Lessons from Kuching and Beyond
The e-ART model isn’t untested. DOM Industries, part of one of the bidding consortia, is already involved in Sarawak’s Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS). That project has provided valuable lessons in rolling out elevated, driverless BRT networks. Drawing from KUTS and similar regional initiatives, the Johor Bahru scheme benefits from proven frameworks and technologies that can reduce risks and enhance efficiency.
Transport specialist feedback highlights the importance of these precedents: “Kuching’s experience shows that e-ART can deliver the flexibility of a bus with the reliability of rail, making it a strong candidate for rapidly growing urban hubs.”
Timeline and Forward Momentum
The process is moving quickly:
- Request for Proposals Issued: March 2025 signalled the official launch of the tender process.
- Route Alignment Finalisation: Expected by August 2025, providing clarity on station placement and system reach.
- Contract Awards: Anticipated by the end of 2025, following rigorous evaluation.
- Integration with RTS: With RTS operations beginning in late 2026, alignment of both systems will be critical.
A Strategic Investment in Urban Futures
The project is about far more than easing congestion. It represents Johor Bahru’s determination to position itself as a modern urban hub capable of handling increased trade, tourism, and residential growth. The integration of the e-ART with the RTS link will create a multi-layered network that enhances mobility while attracting foreign project finance and domestic investment.
Analysts suggest that improved connectivity will also spark broader socio-economic benefits. Property values along transit corridors are expected to rise, while businesses stand to gain from improved accessibility. Crucially, the project demonstrates Malaysia’s broader ambition to develop smart, sustainable cities that can thrive in a globally competitive environment.
Looking Up with Optimism
The elevated e-ART proposal encapsulates the future of urban mobility—integrated, efficient, and adaptable. If delivered on schedule, Johor Bahru will not only reduce congestion but also set a precedent for how emerging cities can manage rapid growth without sacrificing quality of life.
As one industry observer put it: “This is more than a transit project; it’s a statement of intent about Johor’s place in the regional economy.” The e-ART system, paired with the RTS link, could mark the start of a new era in Malaysian infrastructure—where smart solutions shape smart cities.
