The digital sphere was captivated by the recent post from Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, sharing a picture of himself and Anwar Ibrahim during the historic moment when the RTS link between Malaysia and Singapore was officially connected. The project is anticipated to be completed by 2026.

Insight:

• The conversations on the Johor-Singapore RTS Link garnered around 5.1K mentions with 36.6K social interactions that potentially reached 4.7M users for the past 7 days.
• Overall, public opinion on the RTS Link is nuanced, reflecting diverse perspectives. While many acknowledge the potential benefits of improved connectivity, concerns about environmental impact and lack of transparency persist, alongside discussions about possible delays. The success of the project hinges on addressing these concerns, ensuring equitable benefits for both countries and delivering on promises of economic growth and strengthening ties.
• Positive opinions on the RTS Link encompass several aspects. Firstly, the convenience and efficiency it promises are hailed as a much-needed improvement for daily commutes between the two countries, with the potential to significantly reduce travel time and alleviate congestion on the causeway. Secondly, supporters anticipate substantial economic benefits, envisioning enhanced connectivity to boost cross-border trade and tourism, thereby creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in both Malaysia and Singapore. Lastly, the RTS Link is viewed as a catalyst for strengthening social connections between Malaysians and Singaporeans, providing a platform for closer cultural exchange and fostering personal connections.
• Beyond environmental concerns, netizens buzzed with speculation about the project’s delayed completion, some pinning the blame on former Prime Minister Tun Mahathir’s second term. Others discussed fears that the RTS Link, jointly owned and managed by both countries, might curtail the chance for KTM services, a Malaysia-owned company, to operate in Singapore. There were also anxieties about the project primarily benefiting Singapore over Malaysia.
• Last but not least, some emphasized that die-hard supporters of PH should not overly celebrate this project, as the deal was initiated during Najib Razak’s era, suggesting that the former Prime Minister should receive credit for the project. People also pointed out the previous opposition of PH to this project.