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Seems like in 1 area, Malaysia is more forward thinking and protects consumers more than Singapore. https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/773936 they abolished this loan which is front loaded. Hopefully it will happen in Singapore too.

https://paultan.org/2025/09/22/rm1-99-ron95-starts-on-sept-30-for-all-malaysians-pdrm-atm-sept-27-str-recipients-sept-28-pmx “Not included are non-citizens and corporations, who will have to pay the non-subsidised price of RM2.60 per litre. The PM pointed out that our petrol price is lower than Saudi Arabia at RM2.61 per litre, Indonesia RM3.22, Philippines RM4.22, Thailand RM5.68 and Singapore RM9.02.” Means Singapore car can pump the non-subsidized RON95 liao??

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=...&sec=nation "A Ledang flood operations centre spokesman said four roads

Roughly how much for a decent lifestyle excluding overseas travel? 3,000RM per couple? 5,000RM per couple? For views, thanks.

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/singaporeans-can-use-qr-code-to-clear-immigration-at-jb-checkpoints-from-sept-22 Singaporeans can use QR code to clear immigration at Johor land checkpoints from Sept 22 The MyNIISe app will help reduce congestion at the two Johor checkpoints, which see more than 300,000 people crossing daily. JOHOR BAHRU - Singaporeans travelling to or from Johor Bahru can soon enjoy passport-less immigration clearance using QR codes, as Malaysia begins a trial run for its National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) on Sept 22. The MyNIISe app will cover Malaysians and travellers from 63 countries and territories, including Singapore, at the two land checkpoints in downtown JB and the Second Link. During the trial which runs until Feb 28, 2026, the system will also be rolled out in stages to five airports in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s Terminals 1 and 2, and those in Penang, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. The MyNIISe – pronounced “my nice” – app will help reduce congestion at the two Johor checkpoints, which see more than 300,000 people crossing daily. The Malaysian Immigration Department’s NIISe project team told The Straits Times that commuters travelling in groups can also clear immigration checks using a single QR code. This is an improvement over the current MyBorderPass app used by Malaysians, which requires each traveller to scan a QR code for immigration clearance. The team added that the app will also be used for the single immigration clearance system for the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link, where passengers will need to clear both Singapore and Malaysia immigration only at the point of departure. Travellers should still carry their passports or valid travel documents with them. Johor state Infrastructure, Transport and Communication Committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said the authorities hope the MyNIISe app will help reduce congestion at the two checkpoints. “We have been testing the MyNIISe app since August 2025, involving internal staff and select individuals,” he told ST. As part of the trial, 27 immigration booths at the Johor Bahru checkpoint are equipped to recognise the MyNIISe app: eight booths each for inbound and outbound cars, seven for motorcycles exiting Malaysia and two each for commuters at the departure and arrival halls. Meanwhile, at the Second Link checkpoint, 24 booths will be opened: six for cars, four for motorcycles and two for pedestrians per direction. Mr Fazli said more booths will be added in phases. While the use of MyBorderPass will continue during the NIISe trial, Malaysians and foreign visitors are encouraged to use the MyNIISe app, Malaysia’s Home Ministry said on Sept 17. The MyNIISe app is now available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Huawei App Gallery. MyBorderPass was announced as the sole immigration QR code app for Malaysians in December 2024 after the authorities trialled three different apps for the purpose, which also included MyTrip and MyRentas. The Home Ministry said that at the end of the trial, the NIISe system will replace the current QR code system as part of efforts to enhance the country’s security screening systems at its borders. More than 786,000 Malaysians had downloaded the app by March, Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told Parliament that month. He said travellers from 63 countries and territories, and those holding long-term visit passes, may be allowed to use the QR code system for immigration clearance at Malaysia’s borders beginning Jan 1, 2026. The countries listed included the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore. Q: Do you think it will help to lesser the jam at the checkpoint? What do you think?

source: https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2021/09/28/bring-back-hsr-to-excite-the-world-again-says-najib/?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=pmd_AzHpCmrHbXPR9DK06.27Ybl5ZuKUYjXah80i34EzfG0-1632906920-0-gqNtZGzNAnujcnBszQal KUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister Najib Razak says Malaysia needs to regain the global economy’s interest and attention, and suggested that Putrajaya revive the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) project. Najib (BN-Pekan) said the project would give a new lease of life to the peninsular’s southern economic corridor, such as Iskandar Malaysia, Batu Pahat, Muar, Melaka and Seremban. “Aside from efforts to rebuild international relations with major economies that were affected after the 14th general election, Malaysia needs to excite the world again. “Projects like HSR, which would connect two of Asean’s biggest economies, need to be revived according to the original concept and design,” he told the Dewan Rakyat while debating the 12th Malaysia Plan today. Najib said the project would also create 70,000 job opportunities directly and indirectly, while potentially generating US$1.6 billion in revenue, according to the Institute of Developing Economies in Japan. However, this would hinge on the rail project directly connecting to Singapore, instead of just running from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru. The latter, he said, would make the project not viable while costing the nation billions in subsidies. “Reviving the HSR project according to its original plan can also revive the Bandar Malaysia project, worth RM140 billion in terms of gross development value.” He suggested that the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) be assigned such development projects, citing their success with the Battersea project in the UK. “This (Bandar Malaysia) project can also be worked on with Singaporean investors since the HSR would connect with the country, if EPF and PNB are of the view that it would bring an advantage. “If this happens, I propose that the project be rebranded to Bandar Asean, placing Malaysia as the centre for Asean in efforts to attract the international community’s attention,” he said. The HSR project was officially cancelled this year, with Malaysia set to compensate Singapore for costs incurred as part of its obligations under the bilateral agreement. Previously, a source in Putrajaya had told FMT that Malaysia would have to pay compensation of around RM320 million.

As your all-in-one mobile e-wallet, having Dash on hand makes topping up your TNG eWallet more secure and seamless - with competitive rates to boot too! Within the short span of a few years, road trips up into Malaysia have taken on a more tech-centric guise. We're talking, of course, about the rise and the omnipresence of the all-powerful Touch 'n Go eWallet (TNG eWallet). With most merchants in Malaysia now accepting cashless payments via the TNG eWallet, you could effectively get around with just your smartphone. The days of sticking our hands out clumsily with fly-swatters at toll booths also seem to be disappearing into the rearview mirror. With the proliferation of RFID tags - especially with the strict enforcement (finally) of Vehicle Entry Permits (VEPs) for Singaporean vehicles entering Malaysia - we can now zip through gantries without the inconvenience of having to wind the windows down. Perhaps only one point of concern stands between local motorists and this contactless utopia across the border: Ensuring that our TNG eWallets don't run dry. From one e-wallet to another e-wallet To that end, here's how Singtel Dash, a homegrown all-in-one e-wallet, could serve as your best companion in making cross-border road trips more seamless. But in case you're still wondering what exactly the Dash app is, its status as a subsidiary of Singtel should already inspire a sense of quiet confidence and trust. As a 'super e-wallet', the Dash app doesn't just offer basic payment capabilities, which span the likes of paying for your bus and MRT rides, as well as enabling you to carry out international money transfers (when settling overseas bills, for example). The Dash Visa virtual card that is automatically provisioned to any user who signs up and registers for a Dash account also allows you to shop and pay easily both online and in-store, while enjoying specially-tailored discounts and deals with a multitude of local F&B and retail partners! What's more, Dash additionally offers comprehensive insurance plans, and investment opportunities via a robo-adviser - all with the financially-savvy Singaporean adult in mind. With a keener eye to the world beyond, however, its enhanced overseas remittance services also mean that converting your money from SGD to MYR via the TNG eWallet is now more fuss-free and enticing than ever. From now till the end of July, exciting promotions await new Dash app remittance users too! Convenient and secure: Immediate and safe transfers Considering how widespread TNG contactless payments have become in Malaysia - whether it's for dining, shopping, or even refuelling our cars - it's easy to find yourself suddenly confronted with a near-empty wallet on your TNG eWallet app. In many instances, the need for a quick top-up is even more pressing: Imagine driving on the North-South highway, and seeing a toll booth in the distance. If your preferred mode of topping up is via bank transfers, the potential lack of immediacy can add another layer of stress. Singtel Dash's seamless connectivity to the TNG eWallet promises to eliminate at least one aspect of this stress. Transfers from the former to the latter can be done in real-time - meaning top-ups are immediate, and you can continue with your expenditure across the border without any delays. With this service provided by Singcash Pte Ltd - licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore - users can also rest assured that their transfers are 100% secure. Those who need even more assurance can even refer to the Dash app for a full run-down of their transaction history! Competitive exchange rates, and a low flat flee Cross-border road trips are also best enjoyed when we're not forced to spend excessively. Here's how Dash comes into the picture once again. Logically, transferring larger sums of money at a go should make sense, since this negates the need for repeated top-ups. Yet those who prefer to refill their TNG eWallets with debit/credit cards may be deterred from doing so, since top-up fees can rise up to 2.6% for non-Malaysian cards. That's even before factoring in the fluctuating (and potentially exorbitant) foreign exchange rates across different banks! To mitigate this pain point, Dash's low flat fee of just S$2 serves as a powerful antidote, allowing you to transfer bigger amounts at a single time without having to suffer the financial pains of a hefty surcharge. Dash also promises competitive exchange rates for its transfers, ensuring that you maximise your dollar for every single SGD-to-MYR conversion. Enticing benefits to be enjoyed from now till end-July! From now till 31 July 2025, new Dash remittance users who transfer at least S$20 (excluding fees) overseas can enjoy an S$3 cashback. And yes - for all our drivers out there who cross the border regularly, this naturally includes top-ups for the TNG eWallet. Concurrently, those who transfer at least S$200 (excluding fees) to their TNG eWallets can also enjoy a 50% off transfer fee, awarded in the form of a S$1 cashback, and limited to two redemptions per user during the promotion period. To find out more, head on over to the Dash website over here for more details. If you're already keen to get started on your Dash journey, however, you can download the app directly here. Run (or should we say, dash), don't walk!

Wah no fried chicken (KFC) in MY for a while sia, so will KFC SG grab to MY? All other chicken outlets, faster stock up, give promotions and take their customers. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/business/kfc-malaysia-temporarily-shutters-outlets-citing-challenging-economy-4302171

Former Malaysian PM Mahathir to form new Malay-based party amid talk of possible snap polls https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-politics-mahathir-new-malay-party-12999888 Uncle form new party machiam change clothes. This time round might as well just call "Mahathir party" since he's son targeted to take over later.

For those stuck in the relentless, monotonous city grind and dreaming of crystal-clear waters and sandy shores for their next getaway, here's a thought: With Singapore as our launchpad, us locals can explore the charming beaches of Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam without breaking the bank. These nearby paradises don’t just offer cheap and affordable flights and accommodation; they also provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. So, if you're pondering your next escape, let this guide be your compass to seaside serenity and vibrant culture, all within a budget-friendly reach. Sun, Sand, and Serenity: Top Seaside Getaways in Thailand Explore Krabi: A paradisiacal retreat Krabi is a treasure trove of stunning beaches and scenic wonders. Home to limestone karsts and tranquil bays, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a classic Thai beach setting. The Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort in Krabi offers breathtaking views of Ao Nang Beach and unmatched hospitality. Here, visitors can savour seaside dining while enjoying the cooling ocean breeze. Affordably luxurious yet accessible, this resort is a perfect choice for a dreamy getaway. Ah Krabi, Thailand's Mr Consistent. The solid failsafe option. Phuket: Blend of adventure and relaxation With its accessibility and diverse attractions, Phuket remains a favorite. The Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa at Merlin Beach promises a balance between exploration and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in water sports or unwind on the expansive beaches. This vibrant locale offers an affordable seaside experience with proximity to tourist attractions for a comprehensive holiday. A Phuket cab driver once asked me why I was visiting. I said "beaches", he scoffed and replied: "Bangkok cheaper and prettier". I don't think he understood me very well. Islands Galore: Discover Malaysia’s Accessible Coastal Retreats Langkawi: An island of splendor Langkawi, a stunning archipelago in Malaysia, offers a blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic limestone formations. Perfect for a quick getaway from Singapore, it hosts activities like skybridge walks and jungle trekking. Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, making it affordable for all travellers. Accessible by a short flight from Singapore, Langkawi's enticing beaches and rich cultural experiences offer the ideal seaside escape. Perhentian Islands: Nature's aquamarine gem Situated off the northeastern coast, the Perhentian Islands promise crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. From budget-friendly chalets to serene eco-resorts, these islands cater to both backpackers and families seeking relaxation. Beyond sunbathing, the islands offer kayaking, diving, and lush jungle trails. The journey to these islands involves a scenic drive to Kuala Besut Jetty, followed by a short boat ride - a small price for paradise. Oh, to lounge on a beach all day, soaking up the sun rays and frolicking in the water. If I had a patronus, it'd probably be a seal. Pangkor Island: A blend of relaxation and history Pangkor Island blends sandy shores with colonial history. Whether sunbathing on turquoise beaches or exploring Dutch forts, visitors experience a unique mix of leisure and culture. Accommodation spans from cozy beachfront chalets to welcoming resorts. Conveniently accessed via a short ferry ride, Pangkor’s charm and affordability make it a compelling nearby seaside destination for Singaporeans ready to unwind. A Bit of Both: Vietnam's Hidden Seaside Gems and Tourist Attractions Unveiling Vietnam's tranquil shores Vietnam's coastline is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Phu Quoc Island, with its pristine beaches and lush forests, offers snorkelling and diving as unforgettable underwater adventures. Beyond the horizon lies Nha Trang, a city blending beautiful beaches with lively nightlife, perfect for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment. Sand, surf, and most importantly; scenery This seaside journey isn't just about beaches. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets, a testament to Vietnam's rich culture. Meanwhile, the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse into the unique floating markets, where travelers can experience Vietnam's vibrant local life right on the water. Anyone else reminded of the scene in Tangled (2010) where they release the lanterns? Convenience, affordability, and exploration Vietnam becomes more accessible with numerous affordable flights from Southeast Asia and a range of accommodation options to fit all budgets. Explorers can delight in the country's affordable local transportation, from buses to motorbike taxis, making it a convenient hub near Singapore for your next seaside getaway. Combining stunning landscapes with cultural depth, Vietnam's hidden gems present a balanced blend of relaxation and discovery. Conclusion Therefore, when planning your next seaside escape, remember that the perfect balance of affordability and relaxation is just a short flight away. Whether it's the pristine beaches of Thailand, the tranquil islands of Malaysia, or the stunning coastline of Vietnam, Southeast Asia offers a plethora of options to suit any traveller's taste. ~ Fremont (Photos by Audley Travel, Booking.com, The Danna Langkawi, Gill Divers, Trip Advisor, Vietnam Tourism, and HostelWorldBlog)

Long Distance Driving Tips Heading for the highway With the June holidays around the corner The Highway offers you and your family some crucial pointers on preparing both yourself and your car for long distance haul, whether its just across the Causeway or even further afield. Things to check before a long trip Tyres Check if the tyre treads are still good - there should be a minimum of between 2-3mm thread depth. A thread wear indicator is a raised part of the tread that will appear when the thread is reaching its minimum safe tread depth. On most cars the front tyres will wear out faster than the rear ones. If they have about 5,000km on them, it might be good to have them rotated with the rear tyres. Tyres should be rotated every 5,000 to 10,000km in order for all four tyres to wear evenly. Note: on some high-performance models, the rear tyres will be a different size to the front tyres. In this instance the tyres should never be swapped over. Always check that front and rear tyres are the same size before rotation. Remember to check that the spare tyre is useable - it tends to be forgotten until it needs to be used - by which time it's too late. It should be under slightly more pressure than the other four tyres. The owner's manual should have the recommended pressures for each tyre, including the spare. Always set the tyre pressures when cold to ensure the correct inflation pressures. Engine Long distance driving is actually less taxing on an engine than stop and go city traffic. Even so, if it hasn't been serviced for a while, it would be wise to bring the car in for a check-up. Another thing to look out for might be the condition of the various rubber hoses - if they are soft and swollen, they should be changed before they burst. Other things to look into are levels for coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and the windscreen washer reservoir. If you are not mechanically familiar with your vehicle, the AA offers a comprehensive pre-trip vehicle inspection for you. Emergency Equipment Anyone driving along a highway must have is a reflective warning triangle. Should a car breakdown, you should pull over to the road shoulder and deploy the triangle at least 60m behind the car - more if you can safely do so. It should be placed far enough to allow the other cars to reduce speed and avoid your car. Also remember to get all the passengers out of the car and off the highway. Other things that might come in handy include a can of tyre foam, a multi-purpose flashlight that includes a blinker, and an empty emergency petrol can. Should you suffer a breadown, remember that as AAS members, you have access to the services of AA (Malaysia) when you are across the Causeway. Call their toll free 24-hour emergency hotline at 1800 880 808 for assistance or advice on the location if the nearest approved workshop. More details are available on the internet at www.aas.com.sg. Pre-Trip Health Inspection Basic checks you should always carry out on your car before a long distance trip. Headlights Carry spare headlight bulbs and ensure main beam and dip are working. Engine Check fluid levels for coolant, brakes, power steering and windscreen washer. Tyres and Wheels Ensure no sharp objects are embedded and tread is at least 2mm deep. Baby Seat Should be securely fastened. Follow manufacturer's instructions. Petrol Have at least 3/4 tank filled before reaching Singapore customs. Overseas driving tips Take frequent breaks Most Singaporeans are not used to long distance driving as we don't get much exposure to journeys longer than an hour. In most instances highway driving is quite a monotonous activity and spending many hours behind the wheel puts a tremendous strain on the driver. If there is a single designated driver, make frequent rest stops, and someone should be assigned to keep the driver alert and entertained. Not all highways are equal Most of us are used to the PIE or CTE, which are wide and well-lit, but this may not be the case for highways outside the major city areas overseas. Because of night lighting is often poor or non-existent, try to avoid doing any long distance driving at night. Beware of jetlag Jumping into a rented car immediately after a 12-hour intercontinental flight is not a good idea. The combination of jetlag, unfamiliar roads and the unfamiliarity of the car increase the chances of an accident happening. It is probably more prudent to take a taxi or airport limousine to one's hotel immediately after the flight, and collecting the rental car after a night's rest. A handy rule of thumb for overcoming jetlag is that it takes one day for every timezone crossed. This means if the time difference between Singapore and London is seven hours, it will take seven days for one's body to fully recover. Few of us will have the luxury of this time frame to adjust our body clocks, so caffeine and exposure to sunlight are some of the more popular short cuts that people used to adjust their body clocks. Getting prepared Try to do some research before embarking on a long distance drive. The information one gets from maps and guidebooks of the place you are going to visit seldom goes to waste. A host of maps are available from the AA. More often than not, there may trains or buses to most locations you want to visit. Whenever possible, renting a car should be limited to local drives to out-of-the-way locations. Should you be driving, the AA has offices all over the world which can help one to plan suitable itineraries and driving routes. Using the right rubber Save fuel with the right tyre To really stretch the fuel dollar and get the most mileage from each tank of petrol, you should consider installing energy conserving tyres, otherwise known as tyres with low rolling resistance. Not only do these tyres save fuel, they are also designed to last longer than normal. Here are just some low rolling resistance tyres worth considering: Bridgestone Turanza GR-80 The successor to the popular Turanza GR-50, the GR-80 boasts a tread pattern that is specifically designed to suppress vibration and noise from the road surface. This tyre also uses AQ Donut II technology, which consists of a unique compound that promotes wet handling and improves durability. Michelin XM1 Apart from being a quiet and comfortable tyre, the XM1 uses Michelin's Energy Green X compound to allow it to have low rolling resistance. Michelin claims that cars fitted with this tyre will save about two litres of fuel for every 1000 kilometres travelled. Also, the XM1's generous silica content should provide first-class wet performance and excellent longevity. Pirelli P3000 Energy The P3000 Energy is a "green" tyre that is like no other. It not only promotes better fuel consumption, but Pirelli also managed to place it in the "T" speed rating (up to 190km/h) segment, which is a rarity for this kind of tyre. This incredible performance is due to the development a the newly developed tread compund and pattern. Those seeking for a tyre that is capable of providing both performance and fuel-saving benefits should give the P3000 a try. Passion for Performance On the other side of the spectrum, a long distance drive may be an excuse to really push your car to the limit. For these performance enthusiasts gripping power and high-speed stability are paramount, and fuel efficiency, longevity and noise are secondary. Bridgestone Potenza S-03 Pole Position Jam-packed with Bridgestone's technical know-how from their Formula One racing experience, their flagship Potenza S-03 is one of the top players in the ultra-high performance tyre category. By applying the AQ Donut II technology, the S-03 has better straight-line stability and a consistent surface contact that enhances both wet and dry handling. Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Hoping to continue the success of the Pilot Sport, the second-generation Pilot Sport is a completely new tyre from its predecessor. It has a more rigid construction, softer compound and a reduced grooved tread pattern for better contact patch and more responsive handling. The VCP (Variable Contact Patch) system allows the rubber contact area to increase during cornering, while the asymmetric tread pattern should provide outstanding wet and dry handling. Pirelli P Zero Rosso "Zero" refers to zero limit or no limit, and the "Rosso" name is there because it symbolises the love of driving fast cars. By formulating some of the most technologically advanced ingredients for the tread compound, the P Zero Rosso is circuit-ready and should also provide excellent performance in the wet also. Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini are some of the manufacturers that equip their cars with the P Zero Rosso from the factory. If you can afford it . . . For drivers who are willing to invest a bit more money, a long distance trip might be a good excuse to install the following equipment: Ttinted window film For long drives, the full-strength of the equatorial sun beating down on a car can turn its interior into a green house. The installation of a window film can help to significantly reduce the heat penetration into the passenger compartment and reduce the glare of the sun. As the airconditioning has less work to do to cool the car down, there could be a fuel savings of about 3% on fuel. Note: Ensure the film you purchase is accepted by the LTA's Standards, Productivity and Innovation Board (SPRING). Legally, the light transmission for the front windescreen and two passenger windows must be at least 70% and the rear windscreen and passenger windows must be at least 50%. Automatic fire extinguisher An automatic fire extinguisher containing a fire suppression agent can be installed directly around the engine. If and when a fire occurs, a pressurised canister of halotron gas will be released, absorbing the surrounding oxygen and extinguishing the flame. The extinguisher system is completely self-contained and requires no external wiring or electrical supply. In-Car Entertainment Passengers - especially children - easily get restless when in the car for an extended period of time. You might want to consider installing an in-car entertainment system that can play DVDs and VCDs in addition to conventional CDs and radio. There are many of these kinds of systems to choose from now, such as the Blaupunkt IVDM-7002 with its built-in 7-inch screen to save you the hassle and additional expense of separate monitors. What do all those signs mean . . . Malaysian road signs aren't all in convenient English - many are written in Bahasa Melayu. DOn't drive ignorantly into danger. Stay safe by learning what these signs mean - take this guide on your holiday trip with you. THANKS TO AA

Bros I figured that I want to do a little road trip with friends before I have to give up my car.. See some of the nice places around M'sia, and not just the typical stuff. The plan is to go in October just before the school holidays, or end of Sept.. so I can also see the East coast before the annual monsoon. Some ideas: Perak rice fields Makan in Ipoh Tasik Kenyir in Trengganu Food in Penang I won't mind stopping in Malacca along the way, but I have been there a lot of times If anyone has a similar plan or done this before, please share, thanks! Also please share if you have tips on food spots, places to stay (under $100Sin), and sights to see. Cheers

Now the the causeway and 2nd link is back to its business, lets have a thread to share and recommend food places up north ? I did a search and actually could not find a similar thread. This would be useful to many. To kick this off, this is my first contribution. The curry mee which I find it so hard to find in Singapore. Address: Kang Bee Hong, 4446Jalan Eko Botani 3/679100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia

China's Geely Galaxy E5 is finally arriving in the shores of Singapore over this weekend curtesy of Proton via its twin called the eMas 7 through the Authorised Distributor - VinCar, under the dealership of Kinetic Auto. Looks to be a similar setup of distributor (VinCar) + dealer (EV Hub) on the GAC Aion series. The SUV's dimension in mm are (L x W x H) : 4,615 x 1,901 x 1,670 with a wheelbase of 2,730mm. Ground clearance of 173mm. Weight of 1,765kg for the Premium version. The Premium comes with 19" wheels with 235/50 R19 Goodyear tires. It's a front wheel drive unit with Malaysian version having 160kW of power and will do the venture sprint in a little over 6 seconds. But that means it'll be Cat B here in Singapore, hoping a Cat A version comes out that's rated at 110kW and will do the century sprint under 10 seconds. With 320Nm of torque, the software is programmed to give smooth acceleration rather than kick in the backside torque slam. Boot capacity of around 460L with rear seats up and over 1,800L with rear seats folded. Will be competing against rivals such as BYD Atto 3, Cherry Omoda E5 and SAIC MGS5. Believe the Premium version of the eMas 7 will be on sale here in Singapore which is priced at RM124k over the causeway - less RM4k for the first 6,000 units + some freebies. Waiting for the official price from Kinetic Auto and will post a follow up once the OMV is known. Interior looks to be well appointed for a five seat B&B SUV. Front seats are ventilated and great to beat the Singapore heat. Driver's side has 6 way power adjustments and passenger side has 4 way power adjustments. Missing from the China version is the powered ottoman on the passenger side. A 10.2" driver's display is completed by a high resolution 15.4" 2.5K infotainment touchscreen. Back up camera has high resolution details. Geely has it's own internal software development team (bought out Chinese mobile phone maker Meizu) and makes is its own custom System on Chip (SoC) hardware to operate the infotainment. Expect the high resolution screen to be response and snappy as well as the user interface to be intuitive. Comes with a Heads Up Display (HUD)! For a B&B vehicle this is an outstanding feature. A retractable panoramic sunroof with a retractable shade to help protect against the hot Singaporean sun during the day is a welcome feature. The front seats can be folded flat. Might be useful if glamping is something one is looking for. Interior colour is called indigo blue (even though it looks black in the pics) and its more recognisable under sunlight. Other interior colour options (white and brown) are available in China and remains to be seen if Proton will offer these options on the eMas 7. There is a large hidden storage well underneath the boot and there's another hidden drawer below the rear seats. These are great storage features offered on the eMas 7. Proton has tuned the driving, suspension and handling of the eMas 7 to be suitable for Malaysian roads - nice for those planning to go across the causeway on a regular basis to makan and shopping. So the driving dynamics should be a bit better than the softly tuned units of Geely's international version of the EX5. Driving range is rated 410km under WTLP test cycle with a 60.2kWhr battery. Geely makes its own battery called Aegis short blade or golden battery that uses LFP chemistry. Means there's less risk of catching fire compared to NMC/NCA battery chemistries and can be regularly charged up to 100%. AC charging accepts 11kW and take a little over 6 hours to go from 10% to 80%. DC fast charging is a bit disappointing at a low 100kW. Will take around 30 minutes to DC fast charge from 10% to 80%. Reviewers have commented on the remarkable efficiency of 13kWhr per 100 km on the eMas 7. Has the full suite of safety features with Level 2 Advanced Driving Assistance System (ADAS). The eMas 7 has been crashed test under ASEAN NCAP and got five star safety rating. Also received Euro NCAP five star safety rating for the equivalent Geely EX5. Lots of great features for a B&B and awaiting what VinCar + Kinetic Auto is going to price for. Currently there's a promotion at May 2025 Car Expo. Who's interested in getting one?

Hi, For those that drive in regularly to Pelangi area often, what apps are you all using for parking your car by the roadside?

hopefully in 2022 can create a NEW thread liao .... UM$NO govt is the BEST .... still can whack JE property?

Wow... Next level $2.60??

Source: https://says.com/my/news/audi-tt-driver-flees-after-crash-outside-jb-mall A black Audi TT with a Singapore-registered licence plate crashed into four vehicles on Jalan Serigala, Johor Bahru, near KSL City Mall on Tuesday, 25 February In photos and videos circulating online, the Audi coupe is seen speeding down the narrow road before grazing a Proton Persona, losing control, and crashing into three parked cars on the left side. Images from the scene show significant damage to all five vehicles involved. A video taken after the crash shows the female Audi driver sitting with a dazed expression as a man tries to help her out of the car An eyewitness told Shin Min Daily News that the woman, who seemed to be in her 20s, was later seen leaving the scene with the man while holding a dog. Johor police are now searching for the driver, who was no longer present at the scene when they arrived In a statement on Tuesday, Johor Bahru Selatan police chief ACP Raub Selamat confirmed that the accident occurred around 7.15pm on Tuesday, and that no injuries were reported. However, he noted that the driver has yet to file a police report. "We urge the driver to come forward to the Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department at the Johor Bahru Selatan police headquarters for further investigation," Raub said. He added that the case is being investigated under Rule 10 of LN 166/59 for failing to control a vehicle. Raub also called on witnesses to assist in the investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact investigating officer Sergeant Hasrin Abd Rahman at +6019-7767756.

Source: https://mothership.sg/2025/02/shah-alam-shopping-mall-shooting/ The Malaysian police have confirmed that a shooting occurred at a shopping mall in Setia Alam within Shah Alam, Selangor in Malaysia on the night of Feb. 8. Cleaner purportedly shot four times by suspect According to Selangor's police chief, Hussein Omar Khan, more than eight shots were fired from a pistol by the suspect, a local in his 30s, and at least one person, a cleaner was injured, Malaysian media reported. Hussein added that the cleaner was a foreigner who had been keeping his cleaning supplies when he was shot in the legs and rear. "Police believe the suspect fired four shots at the victim using a pistol,” Hussein said. The cleaner was rushed to hospital afterwards for treatment. Escaped the shopping mall by forcing a driver to take him away at gunpoint Hussein added that the suspect then went up to the shopping mall's P2 parking level and fired several shots at a glass door leading to the parking area. He then attempted to escape by hailing a driver. When the driver refused to stop, he fired a shot at the car. The suspect then pointed his pistol at another driver who stopped. "The suspect then ordered the driver to drop him off by the roadside near the Shah Alam Expressway (Kesas), after which the driver lodged a police report," Hussein said. Another police report was also lodged by the driver whose car was shot. Hussein added that the police have recovered more than 10 bullet casings from the stairs and parking area of the mall. Suspect is being tracked down, has 11 prior criminal records The police are currently in the midst of tracking down the suspect, Hussein said. The motive of the incident is also still under investigation. Hussein noted that the suspect has 11 prior criminal records, including for drug-related offences. In the meantime, the Shah Alam district police chief, Iqbal Ibrahim, said the area around the mall has been confirmed to be safe from threats and allowed to resume operations. The police forensic unit is also conducting an investigation of the scene.

https://stomp.straitstimes.com/singapore-seen/woman-stranded-after-jb-workshop-loses-her-car-keys-i-will-not-go-to-malaysia-for A routine car maintenance trip across the Causeway turned into a frustrating ordeal for a Singaporean woman who claims a Johor Bahru workshop lost her car keys, leaving her stranded and almost $300 out of pocket. 31-year-old bank officer, Ms Cai, recounted her experience to Shin Min Daily News, detailing how a simple oil change and air-conditioning check turned into a logistical nightmare. On Dec 29, 2024, she took her car to NK Car Care in Bukit Indah, Johor Bahru. “The workshop was very busy,” Ms Cai explained. “Around 3pm, a staff member asked me to park my car at the car wash next door and hand over the keys. I gave the keys to the workshop owner's brother. He said he would collect the car in about five minutes.” Hours passed with no word. It wasn’t until 6pm that Ms Cai received a distressing call: the workshop had lost her car keys. They assured her they were searching, but by 9pm, closing time, the keys were still missing and her car untouched. “When I arrived, the workshop owner said it was Sunday and the locksmith wasn’t available until the next day,” she said. Determined to resolve the issue, Ms Cai took matters into her own hands, locating a locksmith herself. However, due to differences in the car’s security system between Singapore and Malaysia, the locksmith could only unlock the doors, not start the engine. Hoping to have her authorised dealer in Singapore reprogram a new key, Ms Cai requested the workshop tow her car back across the border. The workshop refused, insisting she return to Singapore to retrieve her spare key for them to duplicate. This suggestion was met with immediate resistance. “If someone finds the lost key, they could steal my car," Ms Cai argued. "If my car goes missing in Malaysia, who will be responsible?” Ms Cai, who said she had previously patronised the workshop three or four times without incident, expressed her disappointment at their lack of accountability. Ultimately, Ms Cai paid RM900 (approximately S$271) to have her car towed back to Singapore. Reflecting on the costly and time-consuming ordeal, she declared: “I will not go to Malaysia for car repairs anymore. This experience was really troublesome. I don't want to lose more because of a small issue.”

Looking at the list of initiatives, do we have more to win or lose? Source: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-malaysia-special-economic-zone-mou-johor-passport-free-travel-4039876 Singapore and Malaysia on Thursday (Jan 11) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on a new Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Under the MOU, both sides will work towards boosting the cross-border flow of goods and people and developing a framework that will lead to a full-fledged agreement on the zone Singapore and Malaysia are also exploring other initiatives leading up to the SEZ, including a passport-free clearance system on both sides of the border Further updates on the SEZ are expected at the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat later this year JOHOR BAHRU: People travelling between Singapore and Johor may soon be able to enjoy passport-free clearance on both sides of the border, as well as digitised processes for cargo clearance at the land checkpoints. These are among the "early initiatives" being explored leading up to a new Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which aims to boost cross-border economic connectivity between Singapore and Malaysia. Under the MOU, both countries will explore several initiatives that will "build towards" the SEZ, including more expeditious clearance of people at land checkpoints, and the facilitation of renewable energy cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore, said Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Malaysia’s Ministry of Economy. According to the joint statement, the two countries will "explore work on several initiatives that will build towards" the SEZ, which are: A one-stop business or investment service centre in Johor Implementing a passport-free QR code clearance system on both sides Digitised processes for cargo clearance at the land checkpoints Co-organising an investors forum to gather feedback from businesses on the Johor-Singapore SEZ Facilitating Malaysia-Singapore renewable energy cooperation in the zone Curating training to address talent and skill gaps for industries in the SEZ Developing joint promotion events between Johor and Singapore to promote trade and investment in the SEZ The MOU also establishes a Johor-Singapore SEZ Committee co-led by MTI and Malaysia’s Economy Ministry. This committee will report to the Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia (JMCIM) co-chaired by Singapore Minister for National Development Desmond Lee and Mr Rafizi, the Malaysian economy minister.

Respect. someone really dare to check their PM's personal bank account! http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10130211234592774869404581083700187014570 Prime Minister Najib’s bank accounts are scrutinized in probe of investment fund 1MDB. By Tom Wright And Simon Clark July 2, 2015 4:42 p.m. ET KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia—Malaysian investigators scrutinizing a controversial government investment fund have traced nearly $700 million of deposits into what investigators believe are the personal bank accounts of Malaysia’s prime minister, Najib Razak, according to documents from a government probe. The investigation documents mark the first time Mr. Najib has been directly connected to the probes into state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Bhd., or 1MDB. Mr. Najib, who founded 1MDB and heads its board of advisors, has been under growing political pressure over the fund, which amassed $11 billion in debt it is struggling to repay. The government probe documents what investigators believe to be the movement of cash among government agencies, banks and companies linked to 1MDB before it ended up in Mr. Najib’s personal accounts. Documents reviewed by The Wall Street Journal include bank transfer forms and flow charts put together by government investigators that reflect their understanding of the path of the cash. The original source of the money is unclear and the government investigation doesn’t detail what happened to the money that went into Mr. Najib’s personal accounts. Advertisement “The prime minister has not taken any funds for personal use,” said a Malaysian government spokesman. “The prime minister’s political opponents, unwilling to accept his record or the facts, continue to try to undermine him with baseless smears and rumours for pure political gain.” Mr. Najib has previously denied wrongdoing in relation to 1MDB and has urged critics to wait for the conclusion of four official investigations that are ongoing into 1MDB’s activities. Investigators have identified five separate deposits into Mr. Najib’s accounts that came from two sources, according to the documents viewed by the Journal. By far the largest transactions were two deposits of $620 million and $61 million in March 2013, during a heated election campaign in Malaysia, the documents show. The cash came from a company registered in the British Virgin Islands via a Swiss bank owned by an Abu Dhabi state fund. The fund, International Petroleum Investment Co., or IPIC, has guaranteed billions of dollars of 1MDB’s bonds and in May injected $1 billion in capital into the fund to help meet looming debt repayments. A spokeswoman for IPIC couldn’t be reached for comment. The British Virgin Islands company, Tanore Finance Corp., couldn’t be reached. ENLARGE Another set of transfers, totaling 42 million ringgit ($11.1 million), originated within the Malaysian government, according to the investigation. Investigators believe the money came from an entity known as SRC International Sdn. Bhd., an energy company that originally was controlled by 1MDB but was transferred to the Finance Ministry in 2012. Mr. Najib is also the finance minister. The money moved through another company owned by SRC International and then to a company that works exclusively for 1MDB, and finally to Mr. Najib’s personal accounts in three separate deposits, the government documents show. Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil, a director of SRC International, declined to comment. Mr. Kamil had power of attorney over Mr. Najib’s accounts, according to documents that were part of the government investigation. A 1MDB spokesman said, referring to the transfers into Mr. Najib’s account: “1MDB is not aware of any such transactions, nor has it seen any documents to this effect.” The spokesman cautioned that doctored documents have been used in the past to discredit 1MDB and the government. For months, concerns about 1MDB’s debt and lack of transparency have dominated political discussion in Malaysia, a close ally of the U.S. and a counterweight to China in Southeast Asia. When he founded 1MDB in 2009, Mr. Najib promised it would kick-start new industries and turn Kuala Lumpur into a global financial center. Instead, the fund bought power plants overseas and invested in energy joint ventures that failed to get off the ground. The fund this year has rescheduled debt payments. The Journal last month detailed how 1MDB had been used to indirectly help Mr. Najib’s election campaign in 2013. The fund appeared to overpay for a power plant from a Malaysian company. The company then donated money to a Najib-linked charity that made donations, including to local schools, which Mr. Najib was able to tout as he campaigned. “We only acquire assets when we are convinced that they represent long-term value, and to suggest that any of our acquisitions were driven by political considerations is simply false,” 1MDB said last month. The four probes into 1MDB are being conducted by the nation’s central bank, a parliamentary committee, the auditor general and police. A spokeswoman for Bank Negara Malaysia, the central bank, declined to comment. Malaysia’s police chief and a member of the parliamentary committee also had no comment. The auditor general said this week it had completed an interim report on 1MDB’s accounts and would hand it to the parliament on July 9. The prime minister is facing increasing pressure over 1MDB. The country’s longest-serving prime minister, Mahathir Mohamad, who left office in 2003, publicly has urged Mr. Najib to resign. This week, Malaysia’s home minister threatened to withdraw publishing licenses from a local media group, citing what he said were inaccurate reports on 1MDB. The $11.1 million of transfers to Mr. Najib’s bank account occurred at the end of 2014 and the beginning of 2015, according to the government investigation. Among the companies that investigators say it passed through was Ihsan Perdana Sdn. Bhd., which provides corporate social responsibility programs for 1MDB’s charitable foundation, according to company registration documents. Attempts to reach the managing director of Ihsan Perdana weren’t successful. Documents tied to the transfer said its purpose was for “CSR,” or corporate social responsibility, programs. The Wall Street Journal examination of the use of funds tied to 1MDB for Mr. Najib’s election campaign showed that the money was slated to be used for corporate social responsibility programs as well. The government probe documents detail how investigators believe SRC International transferred 40 million ringgit on Dec. 24 last year to a wholly owned subsidiary. This company on the same day wired the money to Ihsan Perdana, according to the documents. Two days after receiving the money, Ihsan Perdana wired 27 million ringgit and five million ringgit in two separate transfers to two different bank accounts owned by Mr. Najib, the government documents show. In February, 10 million ringgit entered the prime minister’s account, also from SRC International via Ihsan Perdana, the documents show. The remittance documents don’t name Mr. Najib as the beneficiary but detail account numbers at a branch of AmIslamic Bank Bhd. in Kuala Lumpur. Two flow charts from the government investigation name the owner of these accounts as “Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Hj Abd Razak,” the prime minister’s official name. A spokesman for AmIslamic Bank declined to comment. In another transaction, Tanore Finance, the British Virgin Islands-based company, transferred $681 million in two tranches to a different account at another Kuala Lumpur branch of AmIslamic Bank. The government probe said the account was owned by Mr. Najib, according to the documents. The transfers came from an account held by Tanore Finance at a Singapore branch of Falcon Private Bank, a Swiss bank which is owned by IPIC, the Abu Dhabi fund, according to the documents. A spokesman for Falcon Private Bank declined to comment. The $681 million was transferred to Mr. Najib’s accounts on March 21 and March 25, 2013, the government documents show. Write to Tom Wright at [email protected] and Simon Clark at [email protected]

Rosak oredi? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/malaysia-airlines-grounds-new-airbus-jet-over-safety-concerns

Seven people were reportedly killed and 33 others injured in a collision involving three vehicles on the northbound lane of the North-South Expressway (PLUS) in Malaysia on Monday (Dec 23). Melaka Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Pisar Aziz said the accident occurred around 8.40pm near the Ayer Keroh Rest and Service Area (R&R). The crash involved a tour bus carrying 27 passengers, a trailer, and a Toyota Estima multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). The seven fatalities included three men, three women, and a child. Accident may have been triggered by dislodged tyre Among the victims were five people in the Toyota Estima, including two adult men, two adult women, and a toddler. The MPV, which had eight passengers, was completely crushed between the tour bus and the trailer. One male victim’s body was severed above the waist due to the force of the collision. Initial investigations suggest the MPV was likely en route from Johor to Kuala Lumpur when the crash occurred. According to Bernama, the accident may have been triggered when a tyre from a southbound lorry became dislodged and landed in the middle of the road. The tour bus driver, travelling in the same direction with 27 passengers aboard, was unable to avoid the tyre and hit it, causing him to lose control. The bus then skidded into the opposite lane, colliding with a car before crashing into the lorry and MPV. As a result, the car veered into the left lane and struck the road barrier. Victims identified, including Singaporean woman The police have since identified all seven victims killed in the crash. Among them were Khairul Ikhwan Mazupi, 32, the driver of the MPV, and his two-year-old son, Muhammad Umar, both from Selangor. Also identified were passengers Fadzlenna Ramli, 32, and her 67-year-old father, Ramli Ab Wahab, from Kuala Lumpur, as well as the 56-year-old tour bus driver, Noorisnien Khamid, from Johor. The other two victims were Fauziah Jaafar, 69, a passenger in the MPV, and Lamrah Asid Ali, 66, a Singaporean passenger on the tour bus. The remains of the victims were sent to Melaka Hospital for autopsies. 33 injured hospitalised for medical treatments As for the injured, 17 were sent to Melaka Hospital, 10 to Alor Gajah Hospital, and six to Pantai Ayer Keroh Hospital. A team of 27 personnel was dispatched to the scene and spent approximately 40 hours carrying out the operation, which included removing the wrecked vehicles. The northbound stretch from Ayer Keroh Toll Plaza was fully closed, and traffic was redirected, causing over four hours of congestion as the middle and right lanes remained blocked on Monday night (23 Dec). https://mustsharenews.com/7-killed-collision-malaysia/

Didn't realize that the causeway has been around for a century. It was officially opened on 28 June 1924. Source: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/malaysia-singapore-causeway-bridging-borders-100-years EVERY morning, two to three 40-foot trailers from Malaysian dairy producer Farm Fresh depart from farms in Kota Tinggi and Desaru, each delivering 18,000 litres of fresh milk to Singapore. Founder and group managing director Loi Tuan Ee credits the Johor-Singapore Causeway – which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month – for this seamless operation. “The proximity, easy accessibility and lower logistics costs enable us to send fresh milk to our Singaporean customers daily,” he told The Business Times. The Malaysia-listed dairy producer, based in Johor, began exporting to Singapore six years ago. Today, the city state is its largest export market, contributing around 5 per cent of total sales. Farm Fresh's trailers are among 3,000 to 4,000 trucks transporting goods from Malaysia that queue daily at the Johor Bahru Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex, waiting for clearance to enter Singapore. The 1 Km-long motorway crossing, also referred to as the Malaysia-Singapore Causeway, is one of the world's busiest border crossing, averaging 350,000 travellers and 100,000 vehicles daily. During peak periods such as school holidays, it handles more than 400,000 crossings daily. Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) projects that this will rise to 400,000 daily travellers by 2050. Some days, the numbers can be staggering. The recent Hari Raya Haji long weekend broke records with more than 530,000 people crossing on the Causeway and Tuas Second Link on Jun 14, said ICA. The Causeway is more that a bridge for Jeffrey Lai, president of the Johor Bahru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. "It's not just for workers travelling from JB (Johor Bahru)to Singapore everyday... it also promotes the flow investment, education and culture between both countries," said Lai, as he recalled pleasant bus journeys during his school days from Singapore to JB on Friday evenings. Lai grew up in Singapore, where his parents moved to when he was just three. After the returned to JB to start a business, Lai remained in Singapore for his secondary school education, making the cross-border commute a nearly weekend to visit them. "I still remember... every Sunday night, my father would drop me at the old customs complex, and I would take the number 170 bus from JB to Singapore," he reminisced. Now residing in JB, he still uses the Causeway to visit relatives, friends and business partners here, and to enjoy his favorite Singapore chicken rice. "The Causeway is an important link connecting both countries," he added, noting that more than 10,000 students cross the Causeway daily for their studies. They are not just Malaysian students from JB studying in Singapore, but also, increasingly, students from Singapore going to international schools in JB. Kelvin Kee, executive director of international business division at Singapore Business Federation (SBF), said bilateral trade between Singapore and Malaysia has grown, not just for merchandise, but also in services and digital trade. "Following the lifting of pandemic restrictions, we have seen the cross-border flow of people using the Causeway return to pre-pandemic levels, and even exceed such levels during peak periods," he told BT. He highlighted that Malaysia's proximity to Singapore offers business owners an attractive option for overseas expansion, with significantly lower costs for labour, overheads, rent and land. Since the GlobalConnect@SBF programme launched in November 2019 to aid Singapore businesses in overseas expansion, the business chamber has facilitated 32 successful projects into Malaysia as at December 2023, across various sectors including manufacturing, retail, education and services. In 2023, Johor garnered a total investment of RM43 billion (S$12.4 billion) from 751 approved projects, with more than 70 percent, or RM31 billion, coming from foreign direct investment (FDI). Over half of the FDI went to service sector, while the manufacturing sector received 30 percent. Lee Ting Han, Johor state investment, trade, consumer affairs, and human resources committee chairman, said 70 percent of the FDI in the state's manufacturing sector comes from Singapore. With ongoing projects and robust tourism, the state government is confident total investment in 2024 will surpass last year's. In the first quarter of 2024, 221 projects were approved, focusing on machinery and equipment, food processing, electrical and electronics, and chemical and petrolchemical sectors. Singapore is the second-largest investor in Malaysia and one of the biggest investment sources for Johor, especially the Iskandar region - Malaysia's southern growth corridor. From 2006 to September 2023, cumulative investment from Singapore to the Iskandar region reached RM45.8 billion - about 25 percent of total investment. Wile the Causeway remains the primary connection between the two cities, a significant catalyst for enhanced connectivity will be the JB-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS), set to begin operations by end-2026. In an earlier interview with BT, Malaysia's Mass Rapid Transit Corp CEO Mohd Zarif said the 4 km journey on the light rail shuttle service will take about five minutes. If all goes well, travelling from Bukit Chagar station in JB to Singapore will take only 15 minutes. Chua Hak Bin, regional co-head for macro at Maybank Investment Banking Group, expects the RTS, which is over two-thirds complete, to improve connectivity, reduce congestion and strengthen JB-Singapore ties. The RTS will increase its capacity to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction, compared to the current KTM rail service's 640 passengers.