Bridging Nations: The Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS-Link), Malaysia – Singapore Bilateral Connectivity Redefined

The Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS-Link) is a bilateral cross-border LRT project connecting Malaysia and Singapore. Once operational, the 4km line will transport up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, easing congestion at the Causeway and enhancing regional integration. PMCC supports this strategic development through critical roles in interface management, systems assurance and requirement validation across six key work packages.

  • Year of Commencement: 2020
  • Project Type: RAMS / Systems Assurance
  • Status: Ongoing

About This Project

Introduction: A New Era of Cross-Border Connectivity

The Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is a landmark bilateral infrastructure project designed to enhance cross-border connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore. Spanning approximately 4 kilometers, this Light Rail Transit (LRT) system will connect Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru with Woodlands North station in Singapore. By providing a high-capacity, efficient, and reliable transit solution, the RTS Link aims to alleviate congestion on the Causeway and foster economic and social integration between the two nations.

PMCC’s Strategic Involvement: Ensuring Excellence in Execution

PMCC plays a pivotal role in the successful delivery of the RTS Link project, offering specialized consultancy services across multiple critical packages. Our contributions encompass Interface Management, RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety) Assurance, Systems Assurance, and Requirement Management. Below is an overview of our involvement:

A detailed map showing the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link, including stations, the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine building, and key locations in Malaysia and Singapore.

Illustration from: The Straits Times

Our Role in the RTS-Link Project

Package 2: Immigration Complex (ICQ)
• Client: IJM Construction Sdn Bhd
• Scope: RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance, and Requirement Management
• Key Contributions:
– Establishment of a comprehensive Requirement Management (RM) database using client-appointed software.
– Development and implementation of the RM Management Plan, outlining activities and processes for requirement compliance.
– Linking evidence of compliance to requirements through Verification & Validation processes within the RM software.
– Ensuring systems function as intended, free from exploitable vulnerabilities, and hazards are mitigated to As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).

Package 3: Marine Viaduct

  • Clients: Ekovest Construction Sdn Bhd and China Communications Construction Company Sdn Bhd
  • Scope: Interface Management (Civil-Civil, Civil-M&E, Civil-Systems), RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance
  • Key Contributions:
  • Development of Interface Management Plans and Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
  • Coordination of interfacing activities, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) with Systems & M&E.
  • Tracking and updating Interface Solution Registers and Combined Services Drawings (CSDs).
  • Conducting system testing to confirm functionality and safety compliance.

Package 4: Station & Operations Control Centre (OCC)

  • Client: Ekovest Construction Sdn Bhd
  • Scope: Interface Management, RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance
  • Key Contributions:
  • Similar to Package 3, with additional focus on station-specific systems and OCC integration.

 

Package 5: Terrestrial Viaduct

  • Client: Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd
  • Scope: RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance
  • Key Contributions:
  • Coordination and facilitation of RAMS/Systems Assurance processes.
  • Liaison with suppliers and project clients to ensure satisfactory RAMS Assurance processes.
  • Identification of Safety Critical Items based on Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) and Hazard Analysis.

    Package 6: Depot & Power Supply

    • Client: Ekovest Construction Sdn Bhd
    • Scope: Interface Management, RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance
    • Key Contributions:
    • Similar to Packages 3 and 4, with additional emphasis on depot operations and power supply systems.

    Package 7: Viaduct Aesthetic Feature

    • Client: China Communications Construction Company Sdn Bhd
    • Scope: RAMS Assurance, Systems Assurance
    • Key Contributions:
    • Ensuring the aesthetic features meet safety and system integration standards without compromising design integrity.
    An aerial view of a monorail station under construction, showcasing building structures, tracks, and surrounding construction materials.

    Progress picture for illustration purposes only, does not represent the actual state and / or design of the building.

    Outcome: Delivering Value Through Expertise

    PMCC’s involvement ensures that each system within the RTS Link project is meticulously planned, integrated, and validated. Our expertise facilitates expedited submissions and approvals during both design and construction stages, ensuring compliance with specifications and minimising operational risks. By leveraging our comprehensive approach to project management and system assurance, we contribute to the realization of a safe, efficient, and reliable cross-border transit system.

    Aerial view of workers on a bridge construction site over a body of water, showcasing steel beams and structural supports.

    Conclusion: Building Bridges Beyond Borders

    The RTS Link project symbolises more than just a physical connection between Johor Bahru and Singapore; it represents a collaborative effort to enhance regional integration and economic growth. PMCC is proud to be at the forefront of this transformative initiative, exemplifying our commitment to excellence and innovation in infrastructure development.