Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Onn Hafiz Ghazi has underscored the critical role of the Elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit (E-ART) project in managing traffic flow in Johor Bahru ahead of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link's launch in 2025. The transport infrastructure development is being positioned as a long-term remedy to address mobility challenges as passenger volumes rise significantly following the opening of the cross-border transit system.
Onn Hafiz noted that while interim measures such as Park & Ride facility upgrades and intelligent traffic controls at JB Sentral provide temporary respite, they cannot be considered lasting solutions. These stopgap initiatives are necessary only because the major congestion-mitigation scheme remains in its early stages. The Menteri Besar emphasised that accelerating the E-ART initiative must be a priority, given the mounting pressure on existing transport networks.
With approximately 1.8 million people residing in Johor Bahru—a figure comparable to Penang's total population—the city faces substantial mobility demands. As Malaysia's primary international gateway experiencing substantial cross-border traffic flows, the state requires a multi-modal transport network capable of handling high passenger volumes with efficiency and connectivity.
Spoken during the Southern Shuttle train service inauguration at KTM Kulai Station, Onn Hafiz's remarks highlight the need for coordinated federal intervention. The Menteri Besar believes swift central government action on the E-ART project will meaningfully improve residents' commuting experiences and reduce gridlock. Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, representing Kulai, were also present at the event.
