Malaysia, Singapore to expand cross-border taxi scheme from May 4, widen coverage and boost competition

“KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 — Cross-border taxi services between Singapore and Malaysia will be upgraded from May 4, with both governments easing travel rules, expanding vehicle quotas and tightening enforcement to curb illegal operators. In a joint statement, the Ministry of Transport Malaysia and of Singapore said the changes were agreed following the 12th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat in December 2025, with both sides working through their respective transport agencies to finalise the framework. The enhanced scheme aims to make travel more convenient for passengers while ensuring fairer competition between licensed operators in both countries. Under the new arrangements, licensed taxis will be allowed to drop off passengers anywhere in Singapore, and in selected areas of Malaysia including Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai and Senai. However, foreign-registered taxis will only be permitted to pick up passengers at three designated points via ride-hailing bookings, while street-hail and ride-hail services will continue at Ban San Street Terminal and Larkin Terminal. Fare caps will also be revised. Street-hail fares from Ban San Street Terminal will be capped at S$80 (RM248) for standard four-seaters, S$120 for six-seaters and S$180 for premium six-seaters. In Malaysia, fares from Larkin Terminal will be capped at RM240, RM360 and RM540 respectively, depending on vehicle category. To meet rising demand, both countries will also increase the cross-border taxi quota by 100 vehicles each, bringing the total to 300 per country for a start, with plans to expand gradually to 500. The additional allocation will focus on larger and premium vehicles. The upgraded system also introduces stricter enforcement measures. All taxis operating across the border must carry clear identification, including livery markings, specific plate prefixes and taxi topper signage. Foreign-registered taxis will also be required to install tracking devices. To enhance safety, vehicles must not be more than 10 years old based on initial registration date. In addition, taxis entering either country must carry at least one passenger, except during designated exemption windows — Fridays for Malaysia-registered taxis entering Singapore and Sundays for Singapore-registered taxis entering Malaysia, both from 12pm to midnight. Authorities said the reforms are intended to curb illegal point-to-point services while safeguarding the livelihoods of licensed drivers. Land Transport Authority chief executive Ng Lang said the changes will improve connectivity and convenience for travellers across the Causeway, while Land Public Transport Agency director-general Ahmad Radhi Maarof said the move marks a “significant step forward” in strengthening bilateral transport ties. Both sides said further collaboration will continue to improve cross-border mobility as demand grows.

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