Travel Updates: Johor proposes 12 drop-off points for Singapore cross-border taxis; includes JB Sentral, Johor Premium Outlets

Source:

https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/johor-12-drop-points-singapore-cross-border-taxis-jb-sentral

ChatGPT:

Johor’s state government has proposed 12 new drop-off points for cross-border taxis travelling from Singapore to Malaysia, aiming to make cross-border travel more convenient for commuters and tourists. Currently, taxis from Singapore can only drop passengers at Larkin Sentral in Johor Bahru. The new proposal would significantly expand the locations where passengers can alight.

Among the suggested locations are key transport and commercial hubs such as Senai International Airport, JB Sentral, Medini, Mid Valley Southkey, Mount Austin, and Eco Botanic. Six shopping malls are also included, with Johor Premium Outlets specifically mentioned as one of them. These locations were selected because they are considered major activity hubs within Johor.

Johor’s Works, Transportation and Infrastructure committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh explained that the additional drop-off points would benefit travellers, including tourists who arrive at Changi Airport and want to travel directly to Johor by taxi.

The proposal also includes possible improvements for taxis travelling in the opposite direction. Malaysian taxis may eventually be allowed to drop passengers at five locations in Singapore: Changi Airport, Kranji, Jurong, Shenton Way, and Rochor.

Singapore officials say discussions are ongoing. Sun Xueling, Senior Minister of State for Transport, said the government has held discussions with the National Taxi Association and the National Private Hire Vehicles Association to improve cross-border taxi services.

Industry representatives have also raised issues such as enforcement against illegal ride-hailing services, better holding areas for drivers, and potential fare reviews to reflect higher operating costs.

If implemented, the proposal could make cross-border taxi travel between Singapore and Johor more flexible and convenient, while also creating more earning opportunities for taxi drivers.

Comments:

Pls make this service smooth and seamless!

This service will make a meaningful impact for non-car owners with large family like me.

Finance Updates: Ringgit nears RM3 per Singapore dollar, but cross-border spending by Singaporeans holds steady

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/malaysian-ringgit-singapore-dollar-travel-currency-5958446

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The Malaysian ringgit has strengthened significantly against the Singapore dollar, rising from a low of about RM3.55 per SGD to around RM3.10, and analysts say it could soon approach RM3.00. Despite the stronger currency, Singaporeans continue to spend actively in Malaysia, with little sign that cross-border spending has slowed.

For individuals who regularly travel or live across the Causeway in Johor Bahru, the impact has been noticeable but manageable. For example, a Singaporean couple renting an apartment there saw their monthly expenses rise slightly as the ringgit appreciated. Their combined rent, car loan and daily expenses total about RM5,700, equivalent to roughly S$1,860, around S$200 more than when the exchange rate was more favourable. However, they say the stronger ringgit mainly requires better budgeting rather than major lifestyle changes.

Others who visit occasionally report only minor increases in costs. One Singaporean who travels monthly to Johor Bahru estimated the stronger ringgit adds roughly S$12 per outing, a relatively small increase for activities such as food, transport and entertainment.

Data from cross-border payment platforms supports these experiences. Revolut reported that conversions from Singapore dollars to ringgit increased steadily through 2025, with January 2026 transactions up nearly 42% year-on-year. Similarly, YouTrip said both transaction volumes and spending amounts have grown. According to YouTrip, Singaporeans tend to convert money quickly when the rate hits around RM3.30 per SGD, suggesting users are becoming more strategic about locking in exchange rates.

Analysts say the ringgit’s rise is driven largely by global factors, particularly expectations around US interest rates and broader currency movements, rather than major differences between the Singapore and Malaysian economies. The ringgit also had room to rebound after being previously undervalued.

Looking ahead, forecasts suggest the rate could reach RM3.00–RM3.05 per SGD by mid-2026, though currency movements remain sensitive to global economic conditions.

Comments:

Come on SGD! Be Strong! 😏

LifeStyle Updates: How to get cheaper medication & supplements in SG

Source: 

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/cheaper-medication-hacks/

ChatGPT:

With living costs rising in Singapore, many people are looking for safe and legitimate ways to save on everyday healthcare. For minor issues like colds, coughs, or mild rashes, over-the-counter (OTC) medication and supplements can often replace a GP visit — and there are smart ways to buy them more affordably.

First, always compare prices across pharmacies and platforms. The same products — such as probiotics, lozenges, vitamins, or eye drops — can vary significantly in price between clinics, retail chains, and online stores. Online pharmacies like Glovida Pharmacy often offer prices up to 20% lower due to lower overhead costs. For example, Lactokids Probiotics may cost substantially less online than at supermarket websites. Many platforms also provide free delivery above a minimum spend.

Second, use CDC or SG60 vouchers at supermarkets such as FairPrice, Cold Storage, Sheng Siong, or Giant to offset supplement purchases. While supermarkets don’t carry prescription medication and offer limited professional advice, this method works well for household staples you regularly repurchase.

Third, buying from Johor Bahru (JB) can appear cheaper due to exchange rates. However, factor in transport costs, tolls, time, and authenticity concerns before deciding. Savings may shrink after hidden costs.

Fourth, consider bundle deals for long-term needs. Multi-box discounts can reduce per-unit prices, but check expiry dates and avoid overbuying.

Finally, consult a licensed pharmacist before stocking up. Many online pharmacies now offer free WhatsApp consultations and even affordable teleconsult options, providing convenient, professional advice without clinic queues.

Overall, smarter comparison, strategic voucher use, bulk buying (when appropriate), and professional guidance can lead to meaningful healthcare savings without compromising safety.

Comments:

Interesting information.

Technology Updates: Atome Singapore app now allows payments in Malaysia

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/lifestyle/apps/atome-singapore-app-compatible-malaysia-merchants

ChatGPT:

Atome has expanded the functionality of its Singapore app to support cross-border payments in Malaysia, a long-awaited update that significantly enhances its usefulness for travellers and cross-border shoppers. Previously, the Atome Singapore app could only be used with merchants within Singapore. With this update, its 1.5 million Singapore users can now make payments at over 15,000 Atome-partnered retail outlets and malls across Malaysia.

The payment process in Malaysia mirrors the experience in Singapore. Users simply scan the merchant’s Atome QR code at the cashier or counter to complete a transaction. While the bill and payment input screen are displayed in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), the app also shows the final payable amount in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Atome states that the currency conversion is done automatically at a “competitive rate,” offering users greater transparency on their spending.

Importantly, these cross-border transactions are fully compatible with Atome’s A+ Rewards Points loyalty programme, allowing users to continue earning rewards even when shopping overseas. In addition to Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) instalment plans, the app also supports full upfront payments, making Atome a flexible alternative payment method rather than just a deferred payment option.

To mark the launch of this feature, Atome is running a promotional campaign from 11 to 28 February 2026. During this period, Singapore app users who transact in Malaysia stand a chance to win a “red packet” via a lucky draw, with prizes including S$888 and cashback of S$88, subject to terms and conditions.

Users can identify participating merchants by looking for decals indicating that the Singapore app is accepted. Atome has also published an official list of compatible Malaysian merchants, including at least 37 consumer electronics chains, giving shoppers a wide range of spending options.

Comments:

Nice addition.

Exchange rate needs to be favourable and not far off from YouTrip, Trust Card, etc to be useful.

Travel Updates: 5 New Malls Opening In JB That’ll Be Easier To Visit Once The RTS Link Launches In 2026

Source:

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/new-jb-malls/

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With the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link set to launch by the end of 2026, shopping trips across the Causeway are expected to become faster and more convenient. Anticipating increased cross-border traffic, several new shopping malls are being developed across Johor Bahru, particularly in growth areas such as Iskandar Puteri, Bukit Senyum and the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

Among the earliest openings is Horizon Mall, a 150,000 sq ft open-air mall in Horizon Hills, Iskandar Puteri. Located near the Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club and just a 10-minute drive from LEGOLAND Malaysia, it will feature dining and lifestyle options such as Padi House and popular tea brands, and is expected to open in May 2026.

Closer to the JB checkpoint, SKS City Mall JBCC will sit beneath the Sheraton Johor Bahru hotel, only a four-minute drive from immigration. Spanning about 280,000 sq ft over 4.5 floors, it will house retail shops and family attractions like Jungle Gym, with an anticipated opening by the end of 2026.

Further ahead, Coronation Square Mall along Jalan Gereja will be directly linked to the Bukit Chagar RTS station via covered walkways. Part of a RM5 billion mixed-use development, it is slated for completion in 2029. OBS Mall, a luxury retail component of the One Bukit Senyum project, will follow by 2030, alongside residences and a five-star hotel.

Finally, the Bukit Chagar Integrated Development, opening progressively towards 2033, will welcome RTS commuters with a mall, transport links and large car parks. Together, these developments reinforce JB’s growing appeal as a post-RTS shopping destination for Singaporeans.

Travel Updates: Review: Electric Train Service (ETS) from Johor to Kuala Lumpur

Source:

https://milelion.com/2025/12/24/review-electric-train-service-ets-from-johor-to-kuala-lumpur/

ChatGPT:

The long-awaited direct Electric Train Service (ETS) between Johor Bahru’s JB Sentral and Kuala Lumpur’s KL Sentral officially launched in December 2025, restoring a convenient rail link between Malaysia’s two largest cities after years of disruptions and indirect routes. The service became possible following the completion of the Electrified Double Tracking Project (EDTP) between Kluang and JB Sentral, eliminating the need for train changes at Gemas.

The JB–KL route operates as an ETS Platinum service, using the new ETS3 (KTM Class 94) electric trains, capable of speeds up to 140 km/h. The journey includes multiple stops across Johor and Negeri Sembilan before reaching KL Sentral. One-way fares start from around MYR80–87 for Standard Class and MYR150–160 for Business Class.

Standard Class offers a comfortable 2-2 seating layout with power sockets, USB ports, tray tables and adequate legroom. Business Class, located in a dedicated car, features a 1-2 layout, generous legroom, seat recline, personal power outlets and a touch-screen entertainment system. Business Class passengers receive a complimentary hot meal, drinks and snacks, though food quality is modest and onboard Wi-Fi and entertainment connectivity were unreliable during the journey.

The ride is generally smooth and quiet, with scenic views along much of the route. However, delays occur north of Seremban due to ongoing single-track works under the Klang Valley Double Track Phase 2 project, slowing the final stretch into Kuala Lumpur. Despite this, the train arrived only slightly behind schedule.

Overall, the new ETS offers a jam-free, predictable and competitively priced alternative to buses and flights. While further infrastructure upgrades and the future RTS Link will enhance the experience, the ETS already stands out as a practical and appealing option for Singapore–Johor–Kuala Lumpur travel.

LifeStyle Updates : Everything You Need To Know About The Upcoming RTS Link Between SG & JB

Source : 

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/rts-link-singapore-jb/

Apple Intelligence : 

• Project Overview: A 4km train line connecting Singapore’s Woodlands North Station to Malaysia’s Bukit Chagar RTS Station.

• Project Goal: To ease the travel between Singapore and Johor Bahru.

• Project Capacity: Estimated to carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction.

• RTS Link Advantages: Seamless transfer, frequent trains, and single immigration clearance.

• RTS Link Ticket: Competitive pricing with off-peak fares and season passes.

• RTS Link Completion: Construction and testing to be finished by Q3 2026, with passenger service by the end of 2026.

• Current Commuting Situation: Traffic jams, crowded buses, and lack of space.

• Future Commuting Vision: A one-stop journey to JB by 2026.