SYSTRA wins major independent certification contract in Singapore and Malaysia
SYSTRA is to provide independent certification for the future cross-border link across the Straits of Johor, between Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Photo: Land Transport Authority
The consortium comprising SYSTRA SA, Minconsult Sdn. Bhd and Bureau Veritas Singapore Pte. Ltd was appointed as the Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) agent by the Ministry of Transport, Malaysia (MY MOT) and the Land Transport Authority, Singapore (LTA).
We will need to ensure that the cross-border Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link fully meets the safety regulations of both Johor and Singapore. It will carry its first passengers from the end of 2026 and link the city-state of Singapore to the Malaysian peninsula in the form of a cross-border metro-type shuttle.
"SYSTRA and its partners have just been awarded an emblematic project for two major clients. It enables us to expand our references and our skills in independent certification on a cross-border line with high standards. This could help us win other work in the region, notably in Taiwan.
Daniele Coldebella, Director of the Singapore Railway System Engineering Centre and Asia Systems".
Director
We will be responsible for the assessment and verification of the design of testing, technical inspections, and all certification services to ensure that the Johor Bahru – Singapore RTS Link is safe both technically and operationally, and that it meets the performance and reliability targets set by its sponsors. The audit covers all phases, from design to commissioning, Operation & Maintenance, and all urban railway systems such as Automatic Signalling, Rolling Stock, Control Centre, and Traction Energy.
Once operational, the Johor Bahru – Singapore RTS Link will facilitate cross-border travel between Johor and Singapore and help relieve traffic congestion along the Causeway. Passengers will benefit from a fully integrated service with local networks at each terminus, as well as seamless connections with existing lines.
"SYSTRA’s approach is part of a group-wide approach extending from SYSTRA France to Asia-Pacific, combining in-depth technical expertise with mastery of the transversal disciplines essential to performance and operational safety, including Operation & Maintenance and Human Factors."
Frédéric Rouquette, RTS IV&V Project Director and Head of the Singapore Railway System Engineering Centre
Key facts – Johor Bahru – Singapore RTS link
- Total length: 4km
- 2 terminal stations:
- Bukit Chagar to Johor Bahru on the Malaysia side
- Woodlands North on the Singapore side
- Expected ridership: 10,000 passengers per hour per direction in peak hour
- Commissioning: end of 2026
