Exploring the Johor–Singapore Causeway: A Walk Through Time and Challenges
Introduction
Hey everybody! I'm currently at one of the busiest land borders in the world, the Woodlands Checkpoint. The JB Causeway, officially known as the Johor–Singapore Causeway, is a significant link between the Malaysian city Johor Bahru and the Singaporean district of Woodlands. Spanning 1.056 km, it consists of a railway and a motorway bridge. Opened to the public in 1924, it was the only land connection between Malaysia and Singapore for about seven decades until the Tuas Second Link was inaugurated in 1998. With around 350,000 travelers crossing it daily, it's a bustling thoroughfare.
The Idea of Walking the Causeway
If you're on a budget or a hiker seeking an exciting trail, walking the JB Causeway to Singapore could be an option. The checkpoint serves as the gateway for pedestrians traveling between the two countries. However, since the lockdown ended, I've been wondering if it's still possible to walk across. I couldn't find a clear answer online, so I decided to set myself a mini challenge to find out firsthand.
Recollections of Past Walks
I've walked across the Causeway before, over 20 years ago. Back then, traveling between Singapore and Johor Bahru was a different experience. Friday evening traffic jams were a nightmare, and instead of waiting for buses stuck in traffic, I would walk the 1 km Causeway. Bus drivers would even let passengers alight on the bridge to walk to the customs. Those were the "cowboy days" when things were less structured and more flexible.
The Journey Begins
My journey starts from near KSL Shopping Center in Johor Bahru, where I stayed last night. The plan is simple: walk all the way back to Singapore, just like I used to. I checked Google Maps, and the route involves walking along Tebrau Highway, taking a flyover, and following the road to Jalan Wong Ah Fook. Then, I'll cut through City Square shopping mall to reach the Malaysian Customs.
Safety Considerations in Johor Bahru
There are some concerns about safety in Johor Bahru, with stories of snatch thieves. However, as someone who has traveled to risky places, I have a higher tolerance for risk. I take mitigation strategies like walking facing traffic and keeping my bag slinged with the back facing away from traffic.
Navigating the Tebrau Highway Flyover
As I reach the flyover at the end of Tebrau Highway, I encounter massive construction work, likely related to the RTS connecting Singapore to a nearby station. The road is not as well-paved as before, and I have to be careful walking on the part meant for cars. I use the tall buildings in the Johor Bahru CBD skyline as reference points to find my way to Jalan Wong Ah Fook.
Arrival at Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Stepping onto Jalan Wong Ah Fook makes me feel more secure. The cityscape has changed significantly in the 15 years since I last walked here. It now resembles big cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, with tall modern glass buildings and two mega shopping malls, Komtar JBCC and Johor Bahru City Square.
Diversion to Little India and Chinatown
I take a diversion to visit Johor Bahru's Little India and Chinatown. I remember having BBQ stingray in the back lane behind Jalan Wong Ah Fook decades ago. During the hot midday, most stores are closed, except for some cooked food stores. I also visit the famous curry fish head Kam Long restaurant, but since I'm alone, it's not a good time to have the spicy food.
Exploring Johor Bahru City Square
I enter Johor Bahru City Square to cool off and take a quick tour. It's a shopping center and office building close to the causeway, with a 7-storey mall and a 36-storey office block. Fun fact: the Singapore government's Investment Corporation (GIC) owns more than 70% of the mall's shares. The mall has various shops, including massage centers, nail spas, restaurants, and the popular "Oriental Kopi." I consider having a meal there but the long queue deters me. I also discover a rooftop garden where I can watch the traffic.
Visiting Komtar JBCC
Since I'm already in the area, I visit Komtar JBCC, the other big mall along Jalan Wong Ah Fook. It's much quieter than City Square, but I'm attracted to a cat cafe and spend some time watching the cats from outside.
Leaving the Shopping Mall for the Customs
To leave Johor Bahru City Square and reach the JB Customs, which is linked by an overhead walkway, I follow the signage at Level 2 or Level 3. I have to cut through some shops to find the link way. I admit to getting a little lost, but I hope my tips help others.
The Final Mile and Encounter with the Police
Between the Johor Bahru CIQ checkpoint and Johor Bahru City Square is JB Central, an integrated transport hub. I follow the human traffic flow and pass through the electronic gates quickly. However, when I try to walk towards the Causeway at the street level, I'm stopped by the police. They tell me I have to take the bus and that the only time people are allowed to walk along the Causeway is when transportation between Singapore and JB is down. Although I'm disappointed, I have to accept their verdict.
Conclusion
In the end, I wasn't able to successfully cross the causeway by foot at the last mile. But it's always satisfying to step back on home soil. If you enjoyed this attempt, please drop a like and subscribe to my channel. See you at my next destination!