Adopted at the end of last year, the new scheme came into effect on 1 May, jointly validated by the authorities of both countries. This plan is a true revolution in mobility between Singapore and, in particular, the city of Johor Bahru In Malaysia, with a population of over 500,000. This city is in fact a good alternative, particularly for businessmen working in Singapore but with a more restricted hotel budget. Fourteen international chains are present in Johor Bahru across 23 establishments. Recently, Novotel, JW Marriott, and Sheraton have set up in the metropolis of southern Malaysia.
Up until now, taxis could not cross the respective borders of their registration plate.
A full carpooling service
This new flexibility allows Grab, the "Uber" of Southeast Asia, to launch a pilot service for booking cross-border journeys directly through its app. Called Cross-Border SG–JB (Beta), this service has connected any point in Singapore to several key areas in southern Malaysia since May 4th. In addition to Johor Bahru, this also concerns the new district of Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai, and Senai, where the airport is located.
The launch is gradual, but Grab anticipates scaling up with the integration of new drivers and after assessing user feedback.
The scheme introduces an advance booking feature, allowing passengers to plan their journeys between 12 hours and seven days in advance. Fares are set at the time of booking, based on the regulated prices for cross-border taxis, thereby offering greater cost transparency. A promotional discount of up to 20% is being offered during the pilot phase to encourage uptake of the service.
The offer includes vehicles of various capacities, with 4 or 6-seater options, as well as premium categories suited to the needs of business travellers. The aim is to offer a reliable and comfortable alternative for travel between the two countries, along one of the busiest land corridors in the world.
"Anti-scam" and security guarantee
The service is also distinguished by door-to-door support, although certain regulatory constraints remain. In fact, return journeys are subject to specific rules: drivers may only collect passengers from certain fixed points designated by the authorities and listed by Grab.
From a safety perspective, the service integrates all the features of the Grab platform, such as real-time journey tracking, emergency alert tools, and audio recording. Travel insurance suitable for international journeys is also included for all passengers.
In parallel, Singapore and Malaysia plan to issue 300 cross-border taxi and private hire vehicle licences each in 2026. Grab has already begun to integrate these drivers, notably through its GrabCab fleet, while simplifying multi-currency income management and regulatory requirements for drivers operating between the two countries.
