KTM Shuttle Tebrau: Ultimate Guide to Taking the Train from Singapore to JB

Key Takeaways

• The KTM Shuttle Tebrau is the fastest way to travel between Singapore and Johor Bahru, taking just a mere 5 minutes
• SG to JB train tickets cost 5 SGD and 5 MYR from JB to SG
• Train tickets sell out quickly, so it’s best to book tickets in advance
• You can book tickets via the KTMB Website (KITS) or at the counter (Woodlands CIQ/JB Sentral)

Taking the KTM train to JB is the fastest and most convenient way to cross the Causeway from Singapore to Johor Bahru, Malaysia, with the trip taking just five minutes.

This is good news for many of us whose favourite weekend activity is hopping over to JB to enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment at bargain prices, thanks to the favourable SGD-MYR exchange rate.

However, long traffic jams snaking across the Causeway and queues for immigration can make an otherwise short journey way lengthier, more frustrating and more unpredictable.

Not only does the KTM Shuttle Tebrau free you from having to worry about traffic jams, but immigration clearance for train passengers is also faster than for those arriving at the checkpoint by car and bus.

Fares are affordable: 5 SGD for a one-way trip from Woodlands to JB, and 5 MYR from JB to Woodlands.

So, if you’re sick of sweating it out and jostling with the crowd on public buses, this guide will cover everything you need to know about taking the KTM train to JB from Singapore. We’ll go over how to get from Singapore to JB and back, as well as how and where to buy train tickets on each side of the Causeway.

What Is the KTM Shuttle Tebrau?

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau is a train that runs between Woodlands Customs, Immigration & Quarantine (CIQ) Complex in Singapore and JB Sentral in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Operated by Malaysia’s national train operator, Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) Berhad, it is the only train service running between Singapore and JB.

The fully air-conditioned trains have a maximum seat capacity of 320, and the journey from Woodlands to JB takes just five minutes, although you will need to factor in time for immigration checks. Seating is free, and there is standing room for when the train is packed.

Taking the KTM Train to JB

Why Take KTM Trains From Singapore to JB?

There are frequent traffic jams at the Causeway and long queues for immigration, especially during peak hours in the morning or evening, school holiday seasons, as well as on or before public holidays and over weekends. Taking the KTM Shuttle Tebrau enables you to avoid the jams during high-traffic periods, as the number of passengers does not affect the train’s travelling time.

If you are on a tight schedule or need to be able to predict your arrival time, it is safer to take the KTM Shuttle Tebrau, rather than rely on buses or cars.

In general, even when traffic is smooth on the Causeway, the KTM Shuttle Tebrau is often the fastest way to get to JB and back, period.

Immigration clearance also tends to be much faster for KTM Shuttle Tebrau passengers, with almost no waiting time on the Singapore side. (That said, you should still arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your train’s departure time.)

KTM Train to JB Operating Hours

Departure times for KTM trains travelling from Singapore to JB are from 08:30 to 23:45.

For trains travelling from JB to Woodlands, departure times are from 05:00 to 22:45.

Train frequency varies by time of day, with intervals ranging from half an hour to 1.5 hours.

Singapore to JB (Woodlands CIQ to JB Sentral)

JB to Singapore (JB Sentral to Woodlands CIQ)

Note that the KTM Shuttle Tebrau is expected to cease operations in 2027, six months after the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link opens.

KTM Shuttle Tebrau Ticket Prices

*Note: If you are a non-Malaysian and making a return trip from Singapore to JB, it is cheaper to buy two separate single-trip tickets than a return ticket!

Tickets are free for children aged four and below. You have to register at the ticket counter at the Woodlands Train Checkpoint and/or JB Sentral to receive a free ticket.

When Should You Book KTM Train Tickets from Singapore to JB?

KTM train tickets to JB can sell out very quickly, especially for trips taking place on or before weekends or public holidays. Tickets are generally released six months in advance, and you should aim to book as soon as that happens.

Although you can technically buy tickets in person at the ticket window, this is not recommended, as there is a significant risk that tickets have already sold out.

How to Book KTM Train to JB Tickets?

There are two ways to book KTM Train to JB tickets—via the KTMB Website’s Integrated Ticketing System (KITS), or over the counter at Woodlands CIQ or JB Sentral.

There is a booking limit of six tickets per online transaction, and four tickets for over-the-counter transactions.

Tickets are charged in MYR. If you are based in Singapore, use a multi-currency card or travel card that doesn’t charge any foreign currency conversion fees and offers competitive rates. Examples of such cards include Wise, Revolut, YouTrip or Mari Credit Card.

Booking via KTMB Website (KITS)

1) Access KTMB KITS online.

Image source: KTMB

2) Create an account by linking your Facebook or Google account, or by using your email address.

3) Enter your origin, destination, departure date, number of passengers and click [SEARCH].

4) Select your desired train timing.

5) Fill in your passenger details. You will need your passport details.

6) Pay by Visa, Mastercard, MyDebit, Touch ‘n Go eWallet or Boost.

Buying Tickets at the Counter (Woodlands CIQ/JB Sentral)

1) Go to the ticket counter at the Woodlands Train Checkpoint or JB Sentral. You need to complete the transaction, pass through immigration and be at the boarding gate 20 minutes before departure, so give yourself enough time.

2) Buy your ticket at the counter. You will need your passport and cash for payment. Payment methods other than cash are not accepted.

Note that tickets are often sold out, especially on weekends and before and during public holidays, so it is important to book in advance if you won’t have the time to cross the Causeway by bus.

How to Take the KTM Train From Singapore to JB: Step-by-Step Guide

Preliminary: Ticket, Passport, Time Planning

You need to have your ticket scanned, clear immigration, and be at the departure gates at least 20 minutes before your train leaves. The departure gates open 40 minutes before departure and close 20 minutes before departure time.

To be safe, you should plan to arrive at Woodlands Train Checkpoint at least 30–45 minutes before your departure time.

Make sure you have your passport with at least 30 days’ validity and a hard copy or digital copy of your train ticket with you. Save a screenshot of your ticket or download it to your phone beforehand in case you have issues with internet access at the Checkpoint.

Step 1: Go to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint

The Woodlands Train Checkpoint is located in the Woodlands CIQ Complex, the same building where all bus and other road users clear immigration en route to JB. However, there is a different processing area for KTM Shuttle Tebrau passengers.

To get to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint by public transport, take the MRT to Marsiling Station, and then take buses 160, 178, 856, 912, 912B or 950. Alight three stops later.

When you arrive at the Woodlands CIQ Complex, look for signs pointing to the “Woodlands Train Checkpoint”.

Step 2: Scan Your Ticket

At the Woodlands Train Checkpoint, follow the signs up to the second floor, where you’ll find staff waiting to scan your ticket. You will need to present a hard or digital copy of your ticket.

Step 3: Go Through Singapore Immigration

Singapore immigration tends to be very fast and queue-free. Simply scan your passport at the automatic gantries.

Step 4: Go Through Malaysian Immigration

Malaysian immigration is located in the same building, and you will need to pass through it before boarding the train. So, queue up to get your passports stamped and your bags scanned.

Step 5: Board the Train

Boarding closes 20 minutes before your departure time. Get on the train and grab any seat you like. Five minutes later, you’ll find yourself in JB.

Step 6: Alight at JB Sentral

Congratulations, you’ve made it to JB! Enjoy shopping and eating to your heart’s content!

Taking the train From JB to Singapore

Step 1: Go to JB Sentral

Make sure you arrive at JB Sentral at least 30–45 minutes before your departure time to give yourself time to clear customs and immigration. The departure gate at JB Sentral opens 30 minutes before your departure time and closes 10 minutes before your departure time.

Step 2: Pass Through Automated Clearance

The JB-Singapore trip will be very similar to the Singapore-JB trip. One small difference is that you will be asked to scan your passport at the automatic gate instead of your ticket.

Although your passport suffices as a boarding pass, it’s best to have your e-ticket on your phone just in case, so make sure your phone is fully charged or bring a portable charger.

Step 3: Go Through Malaysian Immigration

Once you’ve passed through the automatic gates, proceed to go through immigration. Queue up and have your passport stamped.

Step 4: Board the Train.

Grab a seat and enjoy the five-minute ride.

Step 5: Go Through Singapore Immigration

Alight in Singapore, scan your passport at the automatic gates, and you’ll be officially home.

Not able to spend the weekend in Malaysia? Use your 100 SGD SG Culture Pass to explore local arts, culture and heritage for free!