RM4 billion Rapid Transit System project in Johor to continue

KUALA LUMPUR: Transport Minister Anthony Loke says a number of mega projects and highimpact projects related to the transport industry will be continued, despite the country facing economic uncertainty.

This, he said, included the Rapid Transit System (RTS) involving the route from Bukit Cagar, Johor, to Woodlands, Singapore, at a cost of RM4 billion, as it could help alleviate traffic congestion along the Johor Causeway.

“We will press on, but the construction mechanism has to be reviewed to speed up the process. There is an understanding between Prasarana Malaysia Bhd with Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT).

“This Prasarana-SMRT strategic partnership agreement was supposed to have been signed on June 30, but we will ask for it to be postponed to provide room for related studies to take place.”

He said the Gemas-Johor Baru electric double-tracking rail project, spanning 197km and passing by 11 stations, which could spur economic growth along the route, would be continued.

The MyBAS bus service project in Ipoh, Seremban, and Kangar would also be continued, with an eye on expanding it based on requirements.

“While the next move was supposed to be to expand the project in Johor, we will need to discuss the matter with the state government before committing to realising the project,” said Loke.

“With Johor now under Pakatan Harapan following the 14th General Election, I believe there is room for cooperation and we will seek the best approach to provide the MyBAS service.”

On taxis and e-hailing services, Loke said he had instructed the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to submit a report on its suggestions to improve both industries.

The detailed report, he said, had to be completed in a month before it was presented to the cabinet, followed by an announcement on the new policy by next month.

Commenting on SPAD’s operations, Loke said 372 enforcement officers from the commission’s 997 workforce would be absorbed into the Road Transport Department (RTD).

He said these comprised permanent and contract staff, and not political appointees, hence the government would consider their roles and directions.

“For now, in terms of operations, direction, licensing and studies, SPAD is operating as usual, but this is subject to change as soon as we amend the related legislation.

“Whether SPAD will be placed as a department under the Transport Ministry will be refined in the cabinet meeting.

“The restructuring of operations and SPAD’s role in being merged with RTD will be finalised in the next two to three months.”