Johor Bahru plans improvements to city centre walkability ahead of RTS Link opening

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Johor Bahru authorities initiated plans to improve city centre walkability and infrastructure ahead of the January 2027 opening of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link. Current urban issues include obstructed pedestrian paths, a reliance on vehicles, and the neglect of vacant land within the Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD). The Johor state government aimed to transform the 101ha IIBD into a major business hub, targeting an increase in economic value from RM208 million to RM21 billion by 2040. Representatives from Zaha Hadid Architects participated in a July seminar to discuss urban system improvements for the area.

Consequences

The RTS Link is expected to restore the city centre's spatial centrality by drawing focus back to the core after years of development on the outskirts. These infrastructure efforts are linked to the broader goal of supporting the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and accommodating an influx of workers and visitors.

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