Industry Giants Compete for Johor Bahru’s Future Transport Network
EPE Power Corp Bhd and Lion Pacific Sdn Bhd have emerged as potential bidders for the highly anticipated Johor Bahru Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, according to sources familiar with the matter. The collaboration between EPE Power and Lion Pacific marks a shift in consortium alignments, raising questions about the status of previously known bidders, including YTL Power International Bhd, SIPP Rail Sdn Bhd, and Mobilus Sdn Bhd.
The LRT project, aimed at modernizing Johor Bahru’s urban transport, comes as the Rapid Transit System (RTS) between Johor Bahru and Singapore is set for completion in December 2026. With traffic expected to surge, a comprehensive mobility solution is urgently needed.
Johor Bahru is set to become a key transportation hub, with the RTS linking the city to Singapore and new mobility solutions being explored. Several consortiums have proposed different transit systems, including LRT and Automated Rapid Transit (ART).
The government is considering various proposals while also evaluating an upgrade of the existing KTMB rail line between Kulai and Johor Bahru into a commuter service. The success of the LRT project will determine the efficiency of Johor Bahru’s transport network, particularly with the RTS set to accommodate 10,000 passengers per direction daily.
Bidders and Consortium Reshuffle
EPE Power Corp Bhd has partnered with Lion Pacific Sdn Bhd, a civil engineering group specializing in railway construction. Previously, Lion Pacific was linked to the YTL Power–SIPP–Mobilus consortium, raising speculation about whether this consortium remains in the race.
Multiple Proposals Under Consideration
Several consortiums have submitted competing proposals, including the LBS Bina Group, Ancom, Theta Edge, and BTS Group Holdings consortium, which initially proposed an 11.3km LRT line from Bukit Chagar to Taman Tasek. This proposal is now being expanded to incorporate ART solutions.
Government’s Strategic Transport Plan
A government committee has been established to assess Johor Bahru’s transport needs, recommending a four-line urban mobility system and the potential transformation of KTMB’s cargo rail into a commuter service. Plans also include enhancing bus networks for first-and-last-mile connectivity.
RTS Completion and LRT’s Role in Traffic Dispersal
Once the RTS is operational in 2026, a local transit system will be essential to manage the influx of passengers at Bukit Chagar station. Without an efficient LRT or ART system, congestion in Johor Bahru could worsen, affecting commuters traveling between Malaysia and Singapore.
Johor Bahru’s Position as a Regional Transport Hub
The development of the Johor Bahru LRT will play a critical role in transforming the city’s public transport. The project aligns with broader efforts to integrate Johor Bahru with Singapore’s financial and commercial ecosystem, ensuring seamless connectivity for businesses and travelers.
The Johor Bahru LRT project represents a potential game-changer for cross-border mobility. A well-integrated transit system will enhance travel efficiency, support economic growth, and strengthen business ties between Malaysia and Singapore. If executed effectively, the project could elevate Johor Bahru’s status as a regional transport hub, benefiting daily commuters and investors alike.
Sources: The Edge Malaysia, Pick a Stock (2025)
Keyword: Johor Bahru LRT project, Malaysia rail expansion, RTS Malaysia-Singapore, public transport Malaysia, urban mobility solutions
