Now that the borders have finally reopened, it's time for you make the trips down to JB you haven't been able to in the past twoyears. Cafe hopping, reuniting with your family on the other side of the border, food hunting… there's an endless list of things you could do in JB.
Typically, besides driving there, the train is an excellent way to travel to JB because they cut out all the stress and waiting of traffic jams and queueing up at customs.
However, the KTM Shuttle Tebrau has been suspended due to the ongoing Gemas —Johor Bahru Electrified Double Tracking Project. The project is aimed at improving train speeds and capacity of the old, rickety trains you remember from your childhood.
Fortunately, the trains will be back up and running from June 19. The tickets will be priced at RM5 ($1.56) for a trip from JB to Woodlands, and $5 from Woodlands to JB. It's still very affordable.
Now that the KTM's reopening, here's a complete idiot's guide to taking the train from Singapore to JB.
Train tickets to JB from Singapore
The one train that services the Singapore to JB route is called Shuttle Tebrau, and it's operated by Malaysia's national train operator, KTM.
Below is the daily Shuttle Tebrau train schedule from JB to Singapore:
| Shuttle service | Departure time | Arrival time |
|---|---|---|
| ST61 | 5am | 5.05am |
| ST63 | 5.30am | 5.35am |
| ST65 | 6am | 6.05am |
| ST67 | 6.30am | 6.35am |
| ST69 | 7am | 7.05am |
| ST71 | 7.30am | 7.35am |
| ST73 | 8.45am | 8.50am |
| ST75 | 10am | 10.05am |
| ST77 | 11.30am | 11.35am |
| ST79 | 12.45pm | 12.50pm |
| ST81 | 2pm | 2.05pm |
| ST83 | 3.15pm | 3.20pm |
| ST85 | 2.30pm | 2.35pm |
| ST87 | 5.45pm | 5.50pm |
| ST89 | 7pm | 7.05pm |
| ST91 | 10.15pm | 10.20pm |
| ST93 | 9.30pm | 9.35pm |
| ST95 | 10.45pm | 10.50pm |
Below is the daily Shuttle Tebrau train schedule from Singapore to JB:
| Shuttle service | Departure time | Arrival time |
|---|---|---|
| ST72 | 8.30am | 8.35am |
| ST74 | 9.45am | 9.50am |
| ST76 | 11am | 11.05am |
| ST78 | 12.30pm | 12.35pm |
| ST80 | 1.45pm | 1.50pm |
| ST82 | 3pm | 3.05pm |
| ST84 | 4.15pm | 4.20pm |
| ST86 | 5.30pm | 5.35pm |
| ST88 | 6.45pm | 6.50pm |
| ST90 | 8pm | 8.05pm |
| ST92 | 9.15pm | 9.20pm |
| ST94 | 10.30pm | 10.35pm |
| ST96 | 11.45pm | 11.50pm |
As you can see, there are plenty of trains every day, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pre-book your train tickets. From experience, you'll need to book in advance if you want to catch the train to JB on weekends and Friday nights.
There are two ways you can buy train tickets to JB: Either online via the KTM website, or over the counter at the train station.
This table shows you how much train tickets cost:
| Ticket sales channel | Singapore to JB | JB to Singapore |
|---|---|---|
| KTM website | RM16 (S$5) | RM5 (one-way) / RM16 (bought as return ticket) |
| KTM counter (Woodlands) | $5 | $5 |
| KTM counter (JB Sentral) | RM16 | RM5 |
I definitely recommend buying return tickets on the KTM website as early as you can. Tickets sell out ridiculously fast!
To save money, you can buy your to and from tickets separately, so you pay RM5 + RM16 = RM21 instead of RM32.
Step 1: Book KTM train tickets to JB online
Visit the KTM Shuttle Tebrau booking website to make your bookings.
To book your tickets, you need to fill in your details. The most important ones are your passport details, because train to JB tickets are now tied to your passport.
There is no need to create an account, you can sign in by email/FB/Google.
For payment, KTM accepts Visa & Mastercard.
If you failed to buy tickets online for whatever reason, you can try your luck by queueing at the KTM counter at Woodlands Train Checkpoint.
You'll need to show the counter staff your passport and make payment in cash. Ticket sales cut off 15 minutes before train departure.
For peak JB visiting days like weekends, public holidays and school holidays, over-the-counter tickets are usually sold out. If this happens, all is not lost —you can still walk over to the regular (non-train) checkpoint and catch a bus to JB instead.
Step 2: Get to Woodlands Train Checkpoint
Assuming you got your KTM train tickets sorted online, the next step is to find your way to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint.
It's actually in the same area as the regular Woodlands Checkpoint, but with the bonus of being very close to the bus stop/drop-off point so you don't have to rub your flesh against throngs of human beings.
My usual route is to take the MRT to Marsiling station, cross the road, and take bus 856 from there. It's only threestops from Woodlands Train Checkpoint.
Here are the other buses that serve the Woodlands Train Checkpoint bus stop. There are many options from Woodlands interchange as well.
You know you're in the right place when you look towards the left and see the gleaming KTM train to JB, just sitting there look all pretty while waiting for you to get on board:
Step 3: Get your physical/e-ticket scanned
When you get to Woodlands Train Checkpoint, head upstairs to level two, where you'll see a queue of train passengers waiting on the left of the walkway. Join them and wait for the boarding gates to open.
Come at least 30 minutes before your train departs, because you need time to clear immigration on both sides before you get on the train. The boarding gate closes 10 minutes before train departure. So if your train is scheduled for 10am, you should arrive sometime between 9.30am and 9.50am.
From Singapore to JB, you will need a hard copy or digital copy of your KTM train ticket. This will be scanned by KTM staff as you check into the gates.
In the event of any screw-up, you may be required to go to the KTM ticket office to validate your online booking.
The ticket office is on the ground floor of Woodlands Train Checkpoint. You can't miss it; there's nothing else there except a lift. Also, there's always a queue:
I'm not sure what the new SOP is, but you will probably be asked to show some proof of your booking so they can print out a physical ticket for you.
Step 4: Take the five-minute train from Singapore to JB
Like I mentioned, you'll pass through both Singapore and Malaysia immigration before you board the train.
First you'll clear Singapore customs, which is a simple matter of scanning your passport and thumbprint through automated gates, just like at the airport.
Then you'll walk a few metres to the Malaysia side. The customs staff will check and stamp your passport manually. After you're clear, put your bag(s) through the scanning machine, pick it up, then board the train.
There will be a large "free seating" sign so go ahead and sit anywhere you want. Don't be afraid to enter the next car —there's no First Class or anything.
KTM trains are often oversubscribed so you might find yourself having to stand. This is perfectly safe and it's just a few minutes anyway.
Enjoy the view of the Straits of Johor and feel smug about making good life decisions as your train goes past the poor losers stuck in the Causeway jam.
Fiveminutes later, you'll arrive in JB Sentral. From here, you can chiong Rotiboy, run amok in City Square, queue for banana cake at Hiap Joo Bakery, Grab to IKEA Tebrau, or whatever it is you plan to do with those ringgits.
All in, taking the train to JB should get you from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral in about 30 minutes.
In contrast, taking a bus, taxi or car from Singapore to JB is highly unpredictable because of traffic. They say time is money, right?
Taking the return train from JB to Singapore
If you also booked the return trip from JB to Singapore, be there early.
A good rule of thumb is to arrive 30 minutes before the train departs. Again, the boarding gate closes 10 minutes before train departure.
For those heading from JB back to Singapore, KTM implemented a new system for checking in from Oct 2019.
From JB to Singapore, you can check in with nothing but your passport.
All you need to do is scan your passport on the self-service gantry (similar to MRT faregates). There's no need to show a boarding pass.
[embed]https://youtu.be/qOYMBKLpJRk[/embed]
Bear in mind that you can only check in with your passport when taking the train from JB to Singapore, but not Singapore to JB. (Not yet, anyway!)
ALSO READ:Things to do in Desaru: Explore another side of Malaysia
This article was first published in MoneySmart.
FAQs
How do I pay for KTM? ›
- JB Sentral to Woodlands, one-way MYR5. 00 and two-way MYR10. ...
- Woodlands to JB Sentral, one-way SGD5. 00 and two-way SGD10. 00 (payment will convert to Malaysia Ringgit).
- Step 1: Book your KTM Shuttle Tebrau ticket online.
- Step 3: Go through Malaysia Immigration and Customs (Exit Malaysia)
- Step 4: Wait in Waiting Room.
- Step 5: Board the KTM Shuttle Tebrau train.
- Step 6: Enjoy your 5-minute express ride.
There are 13 direct train services a day from Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore to Johor Bahru in Malaysia which can book online. Purchased online the ticket price from Singapore to Malaysia is 6.54 SGD one way.
Is there a direct train from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur? ›By Train
Train enthusiasts also have the option of taking the rail to Kuala Lumpur, but there is currently no direct train service between Singapore and KL.
KTM MY RIDE Navigation
Paired with the new KTM MY RIDE app (available for Android $11.99 and iOS, $7.99), visual guidance is transmitted via Bluetooth to the TFT display to show the pre-planned destination.
| version | On-Road Prices |
|---|---|
| KTM RC 390 | ₹ 3,16,163 * |
| KTM RC 125 | ₹ 1,88,989 * |
| KTM 390 Adventure | ₹ 3,38,695 * |
| KTM 250 Adventure | ₹ 2,46,601 * |
| Class of Travel | Minimum Tatkal Charges (INR) | Maximum Tatkal Charges (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper | 100 | 200 |
| AC Chair Car | 125 | 225 |
| AC 3 Tier | 300 | 400 |
| AC 2 Tier | 400 | 500 |
After nearly two years of travel-restrictions between Singapore and Malaysia, travelling without any requirements for testings and quarantines were finally allowed for border-crossings via land from 1st April 2022. Ensure that your passport has not expired and has at least 6 months of validity.
Can travellers take the ets to johor currently? ›Despite the ETS from KL to Singapore train tracks are still a part of a planned expansion project; travellers can still take the ETS to Gemas and then hop on to a shuttle train service to JB Sentral.
Do you need a visa for Singapore? ›You do not need a visa for tourist or business visits up to 90 days. Visit the Embassy of Singapore website for the most current visa information.
Can I do a day trip from Singapore to Malaysia? ›
Johor Bahru
Another idyllic place to visit in Malaysia only 44 minutes drive from Singapore and just 18 minutes from Iskandar Puteri. Therefore, you could squeeze both into your agenda.
- Orchard Road -The Best Area to Stay in Singapore. Major Shopping Belt in Central Singapore. ...
- Downtown Core: Marina Area. The Downtown Core. ...
- Sentosa Island. An Island Getaway in Singapore. ...
- Clarke Quay & Chinatown. The Night that Never Sleeps. ...
- Little India & Arab Streets.
What is the fastest train in Malaysia? This title goes to Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd train, running between Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Kuala Lumpur Sentral and boasting a top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph).
Which month is best for Kuala Lumpur? ›Kuala Lumpur experiences moderate climate throughout the year, but the best months to visit the place is from December to January and June to August due to the popular festivals during this time. February to March and September to October are considered as off season here.
Is gold cheaper in Singapore or Malaysia? ›Malaysia -RM185/grammes; Singapore-SGD61. 50/grammes.
Why is KTM so expensive? ›KTM motorcycles operate at a very high engine rpm that translates into more heat, which in turn means a lot more wear and tear. KTM motorcycle parts need quicker replacement than the other brands. The same makes servicing these bikes expensive, thus increasing the cost of ownership over time.
How much is a KTM in America? ›The 2020 KTM 200 Duke has been launched in the USA for USD 3,999 which translates to around Rs 2.98 lakh.
How fast does a KTM free ride go? ›Power mode one is almost like a 125 four-stroke, it is quite mellow and very forgiving when you first twist the throttle. The speed is capped at 35 MPH to make sure that the rider won't get in over their head.
What is the lowest price of KTM? ›KTM bikes price in India starts at Rs 1.78 Lakh for KTM 125 Duke, which is the cheapest model. The most expensive KTM two wheeler is KTM 390 Adventure priced at Rs 3.60 Lakh.
What is KTM stand for? ›With a name like KTM, which stands for Kronreif & Trunkenpolz Mattighofen, it's not surprising that the company likes to rely on initials for model naming. It would be easy to say that dirt bikes have letter model names, while the street bikes have traditional names.
Where are KTM's made? ›
The heart of each and every KTM is created within the engine plant in Munderfing in Austria, a short distance from Mattighofen. Nearly 200 people work here every day and produce 300 to 400 engines. Two-stroke and four-stroke, single and twin cylinders.
Which is the cheapest class in train? ›Unreserved General Class (UR)
These might be fine for short trips but are never recommended for long-distance travel. However, this is what many poor people in India can afford while traveling. This is the cheapest travel class in Indian Railways.
First Class are the non ac coaches by the Indian Railways. This class was very popular in late 70's and early 80's amongst VIPs and politicians. But with the introduction of AC coaches, FC classes phased out slowly. Now only handful of trains offer First Class.
What is a train fare? ›A fare is the money that you pay for a journey that you make, for example, in a bus, train, or taxi.
Do I need visa to visit Johor Bahru? ›A visa can be obtained from Malaysian Overseas Missions before arrival (only applicable to certain nationalities), but it must be used within its validity period (normally within one to twelve months). However, for permission to stay, a pass for an approved period will be stamped in the passport at the point of entry.
Do I need visa for Johor Bahru from Singapore? ›You should not enter or leave Malaysia without having your travel documents processed by a Malaysian immigration officer and ensuring that your passport is stamped correctly. Singapore nationals do not require a visa to enter Malaysia for up to 30 days.
Do I need SG arrival card from Johor? ›Q2: I am visiting Singapore for leisure travel/holiday; do I need to submit SG Arrival Card? A2: All travellers are required to submit their SG Arrival Card before arriving in Singapore.
How much is KTM ticket from KL to Johor Bahru? ›Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru ETS & KTM from RM 28.80 | BusOnlineTicket.com.
What is the difference between ETS and KTM? ›The KTM ETS, commercially known as ETS, short for Electric Train Service, is an inter-city rail passenger service in Malaysia operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) using electric multiple-unit (EMU) trains.
How to take KTM from Singapore to KL? ›In order to reach Kuala Lumpur, you will need to purchase a train ticket to KL Sentral from Gemas station. With that, you have completed your journey from Singapore to KL Sentral by train.
Do US citizens need a visa for Malaysia? ›
General Entry Information
U.S. citizens are generally allowed to travel to Malaysia without a visa for business/tourist trips of less than ninety days.
You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA.
Can a US green card holder travel to Singapore without visa? ›However, there are certain countries that allow U.S. green card holders to visit without a visa. Some of these countries include Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Georgia, the British Virgin Islands, Aruba, Curaçao, the Balkans, Singapore, Peru, and the British Virgin Islands.
How many days are enough for Malaysia trip? ›Two weeks is an ideal amount of time to spend in Malaysia, allowing you to experience a broad range of activities and regions in-depth and at a more relaxed pace.
How many days tourist can stay in Malaysia? ›Immigration officials will place an entry stamp, known as a social visit pass (visa), in your passport authorizing a stay of up to 90 days. Travelers may apply to the Malaysian Immigration Department for extensions, which may or may not be granted. You must exit Malaysia using the same passport that you used to enter.
How many days is enough for Singapore and Malaysia trip? ›Sophisticated and Modern yet rich in culture and tradition, Malaysia & Singapore - a perfect blend of traditional and modern culture.
How many days in Singapore is enough? ›You should plan to spend at least 4-5 days in Singapore if you want to see as much as possible. This would give you time to visit Singapore's iconic sites like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, and Marina Bay Sands, as well as explore its diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, and Tiong Bahru.
Where is the richest area in Singapore? ›Bukit Timah
With many top local schools and international schools found within the area alongside plenty of green spaces around, the Bukit Timah district has been dubbed as a prime area for the wealthy.
- Book affordable accommodations.
- Enjoy hassle-free transport using the EZ-Link Card.
- Look for free things to do.
- Splurge at local markets.
- Drink tap water in Singapore.
- Hawker street stalls and food halls will be your saviour.
- Save up with Klook bundle passes.
E&O train times, fares & tickets...
The Eastern & Oriental Express (E&O) is a luxury train operating in Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand, run by the same people who operate the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to similar 5 star standards.
What is the busiest train station in Malaysia? ›
Kuala Lumpur Sentral station - Wikipedia.
What is the famous train station in Malaysia? ›The Kuala Lumpur railway station is a railway station located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Construction began in 1910 and was fully completed in 1917.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Malaysia? ›We crunched some numbers and found that the cheapest month to fly to Malaysia is currently July.
How much would a trip to Malaysia cost? ›| Malaysia Packages | Day/Night | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fun Filled Kuala Lumpur Vacation Package | 4 Days/3 Nights | ₹48,272 |
| Best of East and West Malaysia Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹91,347 |
| West Malaysia Exploration Package | 12 Days/11 Nights | ₹92,736 |
| Malaysian Jewels - Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands & Penang Package | 9 Days/8 Nights | ₹1,01,796 |
Sandwiched between February and September, just after the rainy season, is the best time to visit Malaysia; with less rain and an abundance of tropical foliage making March, April, May and June much drier and less busy months to visit.
Is gold expensive in Malaysia? ›Gold prices in Malaysia have trended between RM235 to RM285 in the past year. Despite this volatility, gold is still considered a good investment and some analysts expect the price to rebound in 2023.
Which gold to buy in Malaysia? ›The most important thing to remember here is to get 916/22k or 999/24k gold ONLY.
Is gold tax free in Malaysia? ›It is the de facto standard trusted around the world. Which bullion coins are tax free? Under the current Sales and Service Tax (SST) system, only Silver and Platinum coins/rounds are taxable while Gold coins/rounds are not. The total amount of tax which is incurred is 15.5% (10% SST and 5% Import Duties).
Can I use Touch n Go card for KTM? ›Use it to pay for the LRT, MRT, Monorail, KTM and busses. Just tap onto the gates with your TnG card and the ticket fee will automatically be deducted from your card balance. More parking spaces in malls, hospitals, and sometimes even hotels, accept payment via TnG cards.
Can KTM use debit card? ›You Can Soon Pay For Public Transport And Highway Tolls Using Debit Or Credit Cards. This applies to buses, LRT, MRT, KTM, and selected highways.
What card can use in KTM? ›
Touch N Go is an electronic payment card that can be preloaded with value in Malaysian Ringgit. Touch N Go can be used for KTM Komuter, LRT, highway tolls, parking and shopping. What is a penalty? Touch 'n Go penalty is a pre-set value charged by the Electronic payment system when an irregular transaction is detected.
Do I need to print ticket for KTM? ›When you purchase KTM ticket, you will receive a confirmation letter, and a little bit later you will receive the actual ticket in a PDF format. Print out the PDF and board the train. No need to check-in at the counter.
What is the minimum balance in KTM card? ›Please be informed the required minimum balance of TnG card is RM5 before boarding to KTM Komuter service. Kindly ensure you have sufficient balance or reload your TnG card before at any convenient stores.
What is the minimum balance for KTM Touch n Go card? ›You must ensure the minimum RM5 balance is available in your Touch N' Go card for you to enter the Rapid KL rail or BRT network. Scenario: I don't have an existing Touch 'N Go card, what should I do? You can purchase the Touch 'n Go card at all LRT, MRT, Monorail and BRT customer service counters.
How do I get a NFC Touch and Go card? ›The Enhanced Touch 'n Go card with NFC feature retails for RM10 each and you can purchase one from the Lazada Online Store. Take note that you must checkout and pay using the Touch 'n Go eWallet.
Which debit card can be used as international? ›Note that international usage is only provided on Visa and MasterCard debit cards. If you have a RuPay Card, you can ask your bank to provide a Visa or MasterCard debit card.
What bank card to use when travelling? ›A travel card is better for currency exchange rates and a debit card is better for convenience. Both are equally good for security. A travel card has a cheaper currency exchange rate around 2% however a debit card is more expensive at around 4%.
Can KTM use e wallet? ›Specifically, customers can now pay for Intercity train tickets on KTM's website using Boost e-wallet app. In addition to that, the app can also be used to purchase food and beverage on ETS trains which are handled by Brahims.
Will KTM card expire? ›iii. The offer of free cards are on a first come first serve basis and is valid until stocks last at ticket counters and ticket vending machines.
What is KTM key code card? ›The key chain (known as the Key Code Card) is a smart plastic card which contains all your service information and you can get your bike serviced from any location in the world, yes, in the world.
Can KTM wallet cash out? ›
Instant Refund Completed
Refunds are made instantly in to your KTM Wallet only. Cash, bank account, or credit card refunds are not provided.
- Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commision of India.
- Passport.
- PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department.
- Driving Licence issued by RTO.
- Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government.
Paper tickets are so named because the flight coupons (the pieces of paper that contain the exact flight information and are labeled as flight coupons) are in paper form. With an electronic ticket, this information is held within the airline's reservation system and is indicated as electronic tickets when you check in.
Is it necessary to print online train ticket? ›It is a paperless and online- only ticket. There is no need to take a printout of it before travelling. While travelling, passenger has to just show ID Proof along with the ticket saved online.