Enlivening S’pore’s north, helping shops digitalise among ideas being studied by RTS Link task force

Rejuvenating neighbourhoods in Singapore’s north and supporting businesses through promotions and digitalisation are some plans being explored by a task force helping Singaporeans and local businesses seize opportunities from the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link.

- Esther Loi

The group plans to finalise its findings and recommendations in the first half of 2026.

Announcing these updates at Marsiling Community Club late on Oct 29, Minister of State for Trade and Industry Alvin Tan said these moves will spruce up neighbourhoods and shops to make their offerings more exciting.

Mr Tan, who chairs the task force set up in March, said some businesses are understandably concerned that the convenience of travelling to Johor Bahru offered by the upcoming RTS Link would affect their revenues.

While rejuvenation plans in the north are already in place, Mr Tan acknowledged the need to develop more tailored solutions that will better address the needs of residents and businesses, especially after the RTS Link starts operations.

When ready by the end of 2026, the rail link can carry up to 10,000 people an hour in each direction between Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru and Woodlands North in Singapore.

To ensure infrastructural upgrades benefit people on a localised level, Mr Tan said getting consistent feedback from residents and businesses through engagement sessions is critical.