Three consortia have submitted proposals to Malaysia’s Public Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) for the development of the elevated Autonomous Rapid Transit (e-ART) system in Johor Bahru.

The proposals submitted by  MMC Corp Bhd–DOM Industries (M) Sdn Bhd, WCT Holdings Bhd–Lion Pacific Sdn Bhd, and YTL Corp Bhd–SIPP Rail Sdn Bhd.

The proposed e-ART project is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing urban mobility in southern Johor, particularly in preparation for the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS), which is slated to begin operations in late 2026. Covering three primary corridors—Skudai, Tebrau, and Iskandar Puteri—the system will have Bukit Chagar as its central interchange. It is planned to feature 32 stations and carry an estimated cost of nearly RM7 billion (US$1.65 billion), with contract awards anticipated by the end of 2025.

To be eligible, prospective bidders must comply with UKAS requirements, which include holding a minimum of 30 percent Bumiputera equity, demonstrating a net worth of at least RM500 million (US$117 million) over the past five years, securing RM750 million (US$176 million) in credit lines, and having completed a construction or transport project worth no less than RM500 million (US$117 million) within the last two decades.

The e-ART will operate as an elevated, driverless bus rapid transit (BRT) system, capable of transporting between 5,000 and 12,000 passengers per hour in each direction, depending on the configuration. This elevated design replaces an earlier at-grade BRT plan that was dropped due to concerns over potential traffic congestion. The project takes inspiration from initiatives like Kuching’s KUTS, where DOM Industries is also involved as a system contractor.

Bidders may propose alternative systems, provided they meet UKAS standards related to capacity, network coverage, and operational performance.