Singapore-Malaysia Cross-Border Taxi Scheme Expanded From May 4, 2026
Travellers commuting between Singapore and Malaysia will soon enjoy more flexible cross-border taxi services under a newly enhanced scheme jointly introduced by the Singapore and Malaysian transport authorities.
In a joint statement issued by the Singapore Ministry of Transport and Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport, both countries confirmed that the upgraded Cross-Border Taxi Scheme will officially take effect from May 4, 2026.
The revised arrangement aims to improve convenience for commuters while ensuring fair competition among taxi operators and stronger enforcement against illegal transport services.
Wider Drop-Off Coverage Across Johor
Under the enhanced scheme, licensed cross-border taxis will now be allowed to drop passengers off anywhere in Singapore as well as several designated areas in Johor.
The approved Malaysian zones include Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai and Senai. Authorities said the move is intended to make cross-border travel smoother for families, tourists and business travellers who regularly commute between both countries.
However, while taxis may continue picking up passengers freely within their own home country, foreign taxis entering the other country will only be permitted to pick up passengers from designated ride-hailing collection points through approved e-hailing platforms.
Street-hail services will still remain available at Ban San Street Terminal in Singapore and Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru, similar to current practices.
More Taxi Quotas And Larger Vehicles Introduced
Singapore and Malaysia will each increase their cross-border taxi quotas by an additional 100 vehicles, bringing the total to 300 taxis per country in the initial phase.
Authorities also revealed long-term plans to gradually expand the quota further to 500 taxis each.
The newly added vehicles are expected to focus on larger and premium transport options. Travellers can expect a broader mix of vehicles including standard four-seater taxis, standard six-seater taxis and premium six-seater models.
The expansion is expected to benefit larger travel groups, corporate passengers and tourists seeking more comfortable transport options between Singapore and Johor.
Transport industry observers believe the revised scheme may also create stronger competition in the cross-border transport market, particularly within the growing ride-hailing and private transport insurance sectors.
Stronger Enforcement Measures Against Illegal Services
To combat illegal domestic transport activities, both governments will require licensed cross-border taxis to carry clear identifying features when operating overseas.
This includes official taxi liveries, dedicated licence plate prefixes and taxi rooftop signage. Authorities also stated that taxis must install enforcement-compatible devices required by the foreign country.
For example, Malaysian taxis entering Singapore will need to install Singapore’s ERP2 onboard unit.
In addition, vehicles operating under the scheme must not be older than 10 years, although existing licensed taxis registered before April 2026 may continue operating until they reach 15 years of age.
Another key rule introduced under the revised framework is the prohibition of vacant taxi entries into the foreign country. Taxis entering Singapore or Malaysia must carry at least one passenger, except during specific exemption periods on Fridays and Sundays.
Authorities Say Scheme Will Benefit Both Countries
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority Chief Executive, Ng Lang, said the enhanced scheme would improve connectivity and provide greater convenience for travellers moving between Singapore and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Radhi bin Maarof said both countries remain committed to strengthening transport connectivity and improving the commuting experience across the Causeway.
The upgraded framework reflects ongoing cooperation between Singapore and Malaysia to support growing travel demand, business activity and tourism links between both countries.