Good news for commuters: More cross-border rides coming between Johor and Singapore

Singapore and Malaysia will increase the quota of licensed cross-border taxis from 300 to 500 per country from November 16, 2026. — Unsplash pic

First Published: Friday, 06 Nov 2026 3:20 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Nov 6 — Singapore and Malaysia will increase the quota of licensed cross-border taxis from 300 to 500 per country from November 16, 2026, while allowing two additional ride-hailing operators to provide services under the enhanced Cross-Border Taxi Scheme.

A joint statement by the transport ministries of both countries said the two new operators, CDG Zig Pte Ltd and Kumpool Sdn Bhd, would also be licensed to operate under the scheme from the same date.

“Commuters and drivers can look forward to more options for cross-border point-to-point trips, greater convenience and a better commuting experience,” said the statement on Friday.

According to the joint statement, the developments reflect the continued commitment of Singapore and Malaysia to strengthening cross-border connectivity and improving the commuting experience for travellers between the two countries.

“The improvements will further strengthen the strong business linkages and people-to-people ties between Singapore and Malaysia,” it said. 

Meanwhile, Land Public Transport Agency of Malaysia (APAD) Director-General Ahmad Radhi Ma’arof said Malaysia welcomed the expansion of the taxi quota and the addition of two licensed platform operators.

“... this shows a significant milestone in enhancing the cross-border passenger movement to complement the first-mile-last-mile connectivity between Johor Bahru, Malaysia and Singapore.

“It is our hope that this new development will signify further enhancement of connectivity between the two great nations,” he said.

The two new ride-hailing operators — CDG Zig and Kumpool — will join GrabCar Pte Ltd as licensed operators under the Cross-Border Taxi Scheme. 

“The increase in quota is an important step towards strengthening cross-border connectivity between Singapore and Malaysia, and reflects the strong and longstanding cooperation between our two countries,” said Singapore Land Transport Authority Chief Executive, Ng Lang.

“By expanding the availability of licensed cross-border services, we are giving travellers more options and greater flexibility for their journeys. We will continue to work closely with our Malaysian counterparts to improve cross-border travel and better serve the needs of travellers in both countries,” said Ng.

On May 4, 2026, Singapore and Malaysia introduced enhancements to the Cross-Border Taxi Scheme to bring greater convenience to travellers while ensuring fair operating conditions for transport providers and drivers in both countries. 

The measures include new designated pick-up points for ride-hailing and e-hailing bookings, more flexible drop-off points, an increase in the quota of licensed cross-border taxis and additional requirements to support enforcement against illegal domestic point-to-point trips. — Bernama