How to Travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by RTS Link and ETS
Planning to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by train? Learn how to combine the RTS Link from Singapore to Johor Bahru with KTM ETS from JB Sentral to KL Sentral.
How to Travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by RTS Link and ETS
Planning to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by train?
With the new RTS Link between Singapore and Johor Bahru, travellers will have another way to cross the Singapore–Malaysia border before continuing their journey north by KTM ETS.
The important thing to understand is that the RTS Link does not run directly from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur.
Instead, the journey works as a connection:
Singapore → Woodlands North → RTS Link → Bukit Chagar → JB Sentral → KTM ETS → KL Sentral
The RTS Link connects Woodlands North in Singapore with Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru. The cross-border section is approximately 4 km, with a journey time of around five to six minutes depending on the official specification used.
From Johor Bahru, travellers can continue north by KTM ETS, with current 2026 KTM schedules showing services operating between JB Sentral and KL Sentral.
This guide explains how the journey is expected to work.
Can You Go from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by RTS?
Yes, as a combination of trains — but not on the RTS Link alone.
The RTS Link is a short cross-border rail service.
It only operates between:
Woodlands North, Singapore
and
Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru
It does not continue to Kuala Lumpur.
However, the Malaysian end of the RTS Link is being connected to the JB Sentral transport hub, allowing passengers to continue their journey by other rail services.
The official RTS Link project information confirms that the system connects only two stations: Woodlands North and Bukit Chagar.
So the complete journey is better understood as:
| Journey Section | Transport |
|---|---|
| Singapore → Woodlands North | Singapore MRT / local transport |
| Woodlands North → Bukit Chagar | RTS Link |
| Bukit Chagar → JB Sentral | Pedestrian connection |
| JB Sentral → KL Sentral | KTM ETS |
| KL Sentral → Kuala Lumpur attractions | MRT / LRT / Monorail / Grab / taxi |
The Complete Route
Here's the journey in simple form:
Step 1
Travel to Woodlands North RTS Link Station in Singapore.
Step 2
Complete the required Singapore departure and Malaysia arrival procedures at the RTS facilities.
Step 3
Take the RTS Link from Woodlands North to Bukit Chagar.
Step 4
After arriving at Bukit Chagar, follow the pedestrian connection towards JB Sentral.
Step 5
At JB Sentral, take a KTM ETS service towards Kuala Lumpur.
Step 6
Get off at KL Sentral.
Step 7
Continue to your hotel or destination in Kuala Lumpur using the city's public transport or other local transport.
1. Start Your Journey in Singapore
The Singapore side of the RTS Link is Woodlands North.
The RTS Link station is connected with Singapore's existing Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) Woodlands North MRT station, providing a rail connection into Singapore's MRT network.
This means travellers staying in areas connected to the TEL can potentially reach the RTS station without taking a separate cross-border bus or taxi.
Example
If you're starting around central Singapore, your journey could look like:
Singapore MRT → Woodlands North → RTS Link → Johor Bahru
The exact MRT route will depend on where you're staying.
2. Arrive at Woodlands North RTS Station
Once passenger service begins, Woodlands North will function as the Singapore terminus for the cross-border RTS Link.
The station is being built together with the Singapore CIQ facilities.
One of the key features of the RTS system is the co-located Customs, Immigration and Quarantine facilities.
Passengers travelling across the border will clear the relevant Singapore and Malaysia authorities at the departure point rather than going through another full immigration process after arriving on the other side.
This is one of the major differences between the RTS journey and a conventional road crossing.
3. Take the RTS Link to Johor Bahru
After completing the departure procedures, board the RTS Link towards:
Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru
The RTS Link is approximately 4 km long.
The route consists of:
- Singapore: approximately 1.3 km
- Malaysia: approximately 2.7 km
The system is designed for up to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction.
The train journey itself is only around five to six minutes, depending on the official published specification.
RTS Link
RTS Link train connecting Woodlands North in Singapore with Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru
4. Arrive at Bukit Chagar
Your RTS journey ends at Bukit Chagar Station in Johor Bahru.
This is where the journey changes from a cross-border metro ride into a Malaysian intercity train journey.
The important part is that you don't need to treat Bukit Chagar as your final destination.
If your final destination is Kuala Lumpur, your next target is:
JB Sentral
5. Bukit Chagar to JB Sentral
This connection is particularly important for travellers heading to Kuala Lumpur.
The RTS project includes a pedestrian connection linking the Bukit Chagar station/ICQ complex with the JB Sentral and Johor Bahru City Square area.
The official RTS Link site currently describes a 400-metre covered pedestrian overhead bridge connecting Bukit Chagar Station and the ICQ complex directly to JB Sentral and Johor Bahru City Square.
That means the intended journey is:
Bukit Chagar RTS → covered pedestrian connection → JB Sentral
rather than having to find a taxi simply to get between the two rail hubs.
Important
The exact passenger routing, access arrangements and operating procedures should still be checked closer to your travel date because the RTS Link is targeted to begin passenger service at the end of 2026.
6. Walk Towards JB Sentral
Once you arrive at Bukit Chagar, follow the signs for:
JB Sentral / City Square
The planned pedestrian connection is approximately 400 metres.
This makes the RTS + ETS combination particularly interesting for travellers who want to continue north without switching to a bus or private vehicle in Johor Bahru.
The RTS Link's official information describes the covered pedestrian bridge as a direct connection to JB Sentral and City Square.
7. Continue from JB Sentral by KTM ETS
At JB Sentral, you can connect to KTM's intercity rail services.
KTM's current 2026 timetable includes ETS services operating from JB Sentral towards Kuala Lumpur and KL Sentral.
For example, the timetable effective from 1 June 2026 shows northbound services departing JB Sentral at several times throughout the day, including services around:
- 7:35 AM
- 8:40 AM
- 9:55 AM
- 11:25 AM
- 12:45 PM
- 3:00 PM
- 4:20 PM
The exact services and stopping patterns can change, so check KTMB's current timetable when booking.
Official KTM timetable
Check the latest KTMB train timetable
Official KTM ticket booking
8. How Long Is the ETS Journey from JB to KL?
The ETS journey is considerably longer than the RTS section.
The RTS itself is only a few minutes.
The JB Sentral → KL Sentral section takes several hours depending on the ETS service.
For example, the current 2026 timetable includes:
JB Sentral → KL Sentral
around:
7:35 AM → 12:16 PM
for one northbound service.
That is approximately 4 hours 41 minutes.
Other services have different timings and may take longer depending on the stopping pattern.
So don't confuse:
RTS journey time ≈ 5–6 minutes
with
Singapore → Kuala Lumpur total journey time
The total journey also includes:
- getting to Woodlands North
- check-in / station procedures
- immigration
- waiting for the RTS
- RTS journey
- walking to JB Sentral
- waiting for ETS
- ETS journey
- arrival at KL Sentral
Singapore to KL by RTS + ETS: Journey Breakdown
| Section | Approximate Journey |
|---|---|
| Singapore → Woodlands North | Depends on starting point |
| RTS Woodlands North → Bukit Chagar | About 5–6 minutes |
| Bukit Chagar → JB Sentral | About 400 m pedestrian connection |
| Waiting / transfer at JB Sentral | Depends on ETS connection |
| JB Sentral → KL Sentral | Around 4–5 hours depending on service |
| KL Sentral → final destination | Depends on destination |
Important: There is no single fixed total travel time because the biggest variable is the connection between your RTS arrival and your selected ETS departure.
Why the ETS Connection Matters
This is probably the most important thing to understand when planning this journey.
You have two separate train systems:
RTS Link
Singapore → Johor Bahru
KTM ETS
Johor Bahru → Kuala Lumpur
They are not currently one through-ticket journey.
You need to plan the connection between them.
That means you shouldn't book an ETS departure that leaves JB Sentral only a few minutes after your expected RTS arrival.
You need to allow time for:
- immigration
- walking
- finding the correct exit
- navigating the pedestrian connection
- entering JB Sentral
- locating the ETS platform
- possible queues
- unexpected delays
How Much Transfer Time Should You Allow?
There isn't currently an official universal minimum connection time published for a Singapore → RTS → ETS transfer.
For trip planning, I would not recommend planning an extremely tight connection.
A more practical approach is to leave a reasonable buffer between:
RTS arrival at Bukit Chagar
and
ETS departure from JB Sentral
Remember that the RTS journey itself is short, but the cross-border process and station transfer are what consume time.
Example planning approach
Instead of:
RTS arrives → ETS leaves 15 minutes later
consider:
RTS arrives → immigration/exit → walk to JB Sentral → buffer → ETS
The exact buffer is your choice based on how much risk you're comfortable with.
Should You Book RTS and ETS Together?
At launch, treat them as separate transport services unless the operators announce an integrated ticketing arrangement.
The RTS project has its own automated fare collection system, with MRT Corp stating that fare collection is designed to support contactless smart cards, credit cards, e-wallets and QR codes.
KTM has its own ticketing platform for ETS and intercity services.
So your planning should look like:
RTS ticket
KTM ETS ticket
rather than assuming one ticket covers the complete Singapore–KL journey.
What About RTS Ticket Prices?
At the time of writing, the official RTS project information does not provide a confirmed public passenger fare in the sources used for this guide.
So don't rely on unofficial fare figures posted online.
The fare should be checked through the official RTS/operating channels once passenger service and ticket sales are opened.
This is especially important because the RTS is targeted to commence passenger service at the end of 2026.
What About ETS Ticket Prices?
ETS fares can vary depending on:
- Travel date
- Train service
- Origin and destination
- Seat/class
- Availability
- Booking conditions
For the latest fare, use the official KTMB booking system rather than relying on an old blog post.
KTMB Official Online Ticketing
Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by RTS + ETS vs Bus
Travellers may also compare this route with a direct bus.
| Feature | RTS + ETS | Direct Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Border crossing | RTS Link | Road |
| Singapore → JB | RTS | Bus |
| JB → KL | ETS | Bus |
| Main transfer | JB Sentral | Usually no train transfer |
| Traffic exposure | Lower on rail sections | Higher |
| Seats | Train seats | Bus seats |
| Journey structure | Multiple stages | More direct |
| Best for | Rail-focused travellers | Travellers who prefer one vehicle |
The RTS + ETS option is particularly interesting for travellers who prefer to combine cross-border rail + intercity rail.
However, a direct bus may involve fewer transfers.
The choice depends on your preferred travel style, schedule and ticket availability.
What If You Have Large Luggage?
Luggage is something to consider before choosing this route.
Your journey involves:
Singapore MRT
→ RTS
→ pedestrian connection
→ JB Sentral
→ ETS
→ KL Sentral
That means you will move your luggage between several transport environments.
If you are travelling with:
- One cabin-size suitcase
- Backpack
- Small luggage
the transfer may be relatively straightforward.
If you're travelling with:
- Multiple large suitcases
- Children and luggage
- Bulky equipment
you should allow more transfer time.
The RTS system is being designed with universal accessibility features, including facilities for wheelchair users.
What Happens to Immigration?
The RTS Link is designed with co-located CIQ facilities at Woodlands North and Bukit Chagar.
Passengers are expected to clear the relevant immigration authorities at their departure point and do not need to repeat the full immigration clearance at the arrival station.
This is an important part of the RTS concept.
For example:
Singapore → Malaysia
You complete the required Singapore/Malaysia departure procedures at the Singapore-side RTS facilities before boarding.
Then you arrive in Johor Bahru.
Malaysia → Singapore
You complete the required procedures at the Malaysian departure point before boarding towards Singapore.
Always check the latest immigration requirements before travelling because passport, entry and declaration rules are separate from the railway service itself.
Can You Take RTS from Singapore to KLIA?
Not directly.
The RTS only takes you:
Singapore → Bukit Chagar
If you need to reach Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), you would need to continue from Johor Bahru by another transport mode.
One possible rail-based journey would be:
Singapore → RTS → Bukit Chagar → JB Sentral → ETS → KL Sentral → KLIA Ekspres / airport connection
The airport connection should be planned separately because KL Sentral is a major transport interchange.
Can You Take RTS from Singapore Directly to KL Sentral?
No.
The RTS Link does not operate to KL Sentral.
The route is:
Singapore
↓
Woodlands North
↓
RTS Link
↓
Bukit Chagar
↓
JB Sentral
↓
KTM ETS
↓
KL Sentral
This distinction is important because someone searching "RTS Singapore to KL" might assume the RTS is a direct Singapore–Kuala Lumpur train.
It isn't.
The RTS is the Singapore–Johor Bahru connection.
The ETS is the Johor Bahru–Kuala Lumpur connection.
Singapore
↓
Woodlands North
↓ RTS Link
Bukit Chagar
↓ 400m pedestrian connection
JB Sentral
↓ KTM ETS
KL Sentral
↓ local transport
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore to Kuala Lumpur route using RTS Link from Woodlands North to Bukit Chagar and KTM ETS from JB Sentral to KL Sentral.What to Do at JB Sentral During the Transfer
If your ETS departure isn't immediately after your RTS arrival, JB Sentral gives you somewhere to wait before continuing north.
JB Sentral is a major transport hub connected to central Johor Bahru.
The planned RTS pedestrian connection will also connect towards Johor Bahru City Square, giving travellers access to shops and other facilities around the city centre.
If you have a longer transfer, you can use the time to:
- Get food
- Buy drinks
- Use the facilities
- Check your ETS platform
- Rest before the longer train journey
However, don't wander too far if your ETS departure is approaching.
What to Do When You Arrive at KL Sentral
KL Sentral is one of Kuala Lumpur's main transport hubs.
From KL Sentral, travellers can connect to other urban rail services and local transport to reach areas such as:
- Bukit Bintang
- KLCC
- Chinatown
- Central Market
- Bangsar
- Brickfields
- Kuala Lumpur city centre
So if your hotel isn't directly at KL Sentral, you don't necessarily need a taxi for the entire journey.
You can continue using Kuala Lumpur's rail network or other local transport.
Example Singapore to KL Itinerary
Here's a simple example of how the journey could be planned.
Morning
Singapore
Take MRT/local transport towards Woodlands North.
↓
Woodlands North RTS
Complete the required cross-border procedures.
↓
RTS Link
Woodlands North → Bukit Chagar
↓
Bukit Chagar
Follow signs towards JB Sentral.
↓
Pedestrian connection
Bukit Chagar → JB Sentral
↓
JB Sentral
Take KTM ETS north.
↓
KL Sentral
Arrive in Kuala Lumpur.
The exact timings should be built around the RTS timetable and the latest KTM ETS schedule once you know your travel date.
Example of a More Comfortable Connection
Instead of trying to minimise every minute, you can plan the journey around a comfortable ETS connection.
For example:
Singapore → Woodlands North
↓
RTS
↓
Bukit Chagar
↓
Immigration / exit
↓
Walk to JB Sentral
↓
Food / rest / transfer buffer
↓
ETS
↓
KL Sentral
This approach gives you more flexibility if one part of the journey takes longer than expected.
What Should You Book First?
For a future trip, I would plan in this order:
1. Decide your travel date
Make sure the RTS is operating on your intended date.
The RTS is targeted for passenger service at the end of 2026.
2. Check the RTS timetable
Once passenger services and schedules are published, check the available departure times.
3. Check KTM ETS
Look for JB Sentral → KL Sentral services.
4. Build a transfer buffer
Don't choose an ETS departure immediately after your expected RTS arrival.
5. Book your accommodation
Once you know your arrival time at KL Sentral, choose your hotel.
Important: RTS Opening Date
If you're planning this journey for 2026, pay attention to the opening date.
As of the latest official project information, the RTS Link is targeted to commence passenger service by December 2026 / end of 2026.
That means you should not assume RTS services are available for travel dates before the official passenger-service launch.
Always check the official RTS announcement before booking a trip around it.
Why This Route Could Be Useful for Tourists
The RTS + ETS combination creates an interesting travel option for visitors who want to see more than one Malaysian destination.
Instead of:
Singapore → Kuala Lumpur
you could plan:
Singapore → Johor Bahru → Kuala Lumpur
That gives you the option to spend time in JB before continuing north.
For example:
Option 1 — Same-day connection
Singapore
→ RTS
→ JB Sentral
→ ETS
→ Kuala Lumpur
Option 2 — JB stopover
Singapore
→ RTS
→ Johor Bahru
→ Overnight stay
→ ETS
→ Kuala Lumpur
Option 3 — Explore Johor first
Singapore
→ RTS
→ Johor Bahru
→ Attractions / food / shopping
→ Overnight stay
→ ETS
→ Kuala Lumpur
This is where the route becomes more interesting for travellers rather than simply being a transport connection.
Combine the Journey With Johor Bahru
If you're staying in Johor Bahru before travelling to Kuala Lumpur, you can explore the city before continuing north.
Senjalan covers travel ideas around Malaysia, including attractions, experiences and car rental.
For visitors who want to explore Johor before taking the ETS, you can start with:
For car rental information:
How to Rent a Car in Johor Bahru: A Complete Guide
And for visitors coming from Singapore:
Car Rental in Johor Bahru: What Singaporeans Need to Know
Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by RTS + ETS: Pros and Considerations
| Consideration | RTS + ETS |
|---|---|
| Border crossing | Rail |
| Traffic | Less dependent on road traffic |
| Transfers | Yes |
| Singapore → JB | RTS |
| JB → KL | ETS |
| Final station in KL | KL Sentral |
| Luggage | Manageable but requires transfers |
| Journey style | Multi-stage rail journey |
| Best for | Travellers who prefer rail |
The biggest advantage of this route is that the journey is divided into two rail sections.
The main consideration is the transfer at Johor Bahru.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Check the RTS operating status
Because the service is new, always check the latest official information.
Book your ETS early
Popular ETS services can sell out, especially around weekends and holidays.
Don't make the connection too tight
Give yourself time to leave Bukit Chagar, walk to JB Sentral and find your ETS platform.
Keep your passport accessible
You will be crossing an international border.
Keep your tickets accessible
You'll have separate transport services.
Travel light if possible
A suitcase and backpack are easier to move between stations than multiple large bags.
Check your final Kuala Lumpur destination
KL Sentral may not be your final stop.
Official Links for Your Journey
RTS Link
KTM ETS
KTMB Official Online Ticketing
Senjalan
Senjalan – Travel, Experiences & Car Rental
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur using the RTS Link?
Yes, but not directly on the RTS Link.
You need to take the RTS Link from Woodlands North to Bukit Chagar, transfer to JB Sentral and then take KTM ETS to KL Sentral.
Does RTS Link go directly to Kuala Lumpur?
No.
The RTS Link only connects Woodlands North in Singapore with Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru.
How do I get from Bukit Chagar to JB Sentral?
The RTS project provides a planned 400-metre covered pedestrian connection between Bukit Chagar and JB Sentral/City Square.
Can I take ETS from JB Sentral to Kuala Lumpur?
Yes. KTM's 2026 ETS timetable includes northbound services from JB Sentral towards KL Sentral.
How long does the RTS Link take?
The RTS project is approximately 4 km long. Official project sources describe the train journey as around five to six minutes between Woodlands North and Bukit Chagar.
How long does JB Sentral to KL take by ETS?
It depends on the service. The current 2026 timetable includes journeys of roughly four to five hours, depending on the train and stopping pattern.
Do I need separate tickets for RTS and ETS?
You should plan for them as separate services unless the operators announce an integrated ticketing arrangement.
RTS has its own fare collection system, while KTM operates its own ETS ticketing platform.
Can I use RTS and ETS on the same day?
Yes, once RTS passenger service has officially started and both services operate on your travel date.
The key is to leave enough time between your RTS arrival at Bukit Chagar and your ETS departure from JB Sentral.
Is RTS Link already operating?
As of 29 September 2026, the official project information still states that passenger service is targeted for the end of 2026 / December 2026.
Check the official RTS channels for the confirmed opening date and timetable before travelling.
Can I go from Singapore to KLIA using RTS?
Not directly.
You would need to continue beyond Johor Bahru, potentially using ETS to KL Sentral and then an airport connection.
Plan Your Singapore → Malaysia → Kuala Lumpur Journey With Senjalan
The RTS Link will change the way travellers move between Singapore and Johor Bahru, but it doesn't replace the longer rail journey to Kuala Lumpur.
For travellers heading all the way to KL, the route is:
Singapore
→ Woodlands North
→ RTS Link
→ Bukit Chagar
→ JB Sentral
→ KTM ETS
→ KL Sentral
It turns a cross-border journey into a combination of two rail systems, with Johor Bahru acting as the connection point between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
If you're planning a trip that combines Singapore, Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, Senjalan can help you discover where to go, what to do and how to plan your journey around Malaysia.