Commuters hoping to use ride-hailing services such as Grab, Gojek or TADA for direct cross-border journeys between Singapore and Johor Bahru are out of luck – at least for now.
Despite recent reports in Malaysian media hinting that Singapore might be looking to introduce on-demand ride-hailing for cross-border transport, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has stepped in to clarify that there are currently no such plans to liberalise these services. The announcement comes following a bilateral meeting between Singapore and Malaysian transport officials on 1 August 2025.
This clarification is particularly relevant to thousands of commuters who cross the Causeway daily for work, school, or leisure. For now, Grab cars will not be ferrying passengers across the border – a move that might disappoint some who were hoping for more flexible and convenient alternatives to crowded buses and limited taxis.
Existing Taxi Scheme Still the Main Option
At present, point-to-point transport across the Singapore-Malaysia border is limited to a Reciprocal Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS). Under this arrangement, up to 200 taxis from each side are licensed to operate cross-border trips. However, these taxis can only pick up and drop off passengers at one designated location in the other country — Singapore taxis at Larkin Sentral in Johor Bahru, and Malaysian taxis at the Ban San Street Terminal in Singapore.
Interestingly, LTA noted that the current quota of 200 taxis per side has not been fully utilised. In response, the authorities are now encouraging full take-up of these quotas. Additionally, they are exploring enhancements such as expanding the number of drop-off and pick-up points, and introducing app-based bookings — but strictly within the licensed taxi network. This means that any hopes of casually calling for a Gojek ride across the border are still off the table.
Changes Require Agreement from Both Governments
The LTA was clear in emphasising that any potential updates to cross-border transport arrangements must be reciprocal and carefully negotiated with Malaysian authorities. The objective, they said, is to improve commuter convenience without compromising the livelihoods of existing taxi and private hire drivers.
“We remain open to ideas that can enhance the cross-border commuting experience,” said an LTA spokesperson. “However, our priority is to balance commuter demand with the protection of our transport workers’ interests.”
Cross-Border Bus Timings Under Review
Apart from e-hailing, discussions at the recent meeting also covered requests from Malaysia for Singapore’s cross-border bus services to start operations earlier — at around 4.00am — to ease peak-hour congestion. The LTA is now evaluating whether it is feasible to advance the bus start times, while ensuring they still align with the operating hours of Singapore’s MRT and local bus services.
Private operators may also be roped in to offer early-morning services at higher fares, adding potential options for early commuters.
Conclusion
In short, while there is momentum toward improving cross-border public transport, commuters will have to temper expectations when it comes to on-demand ride-hailing. For now, Grab, TADA and Gojek will continue to operate only within their respective borders — and anyone hoping for a cross-border ride will still have to rely on licensed taxis, buses, or walking across the Causeway.
Any shift to allow more flexible cross-border services will depend not only on policy changes but also on the willingness of both Singapore and Malaysia to find common ground. Until then, the wait for a Grab ride to Johor Bahru continues.