JB Sentral Transportation Hub: Complete Navigation Guide

JB Sentral is Johor Bahru’s main transportation hub and the gateway for most travelers crossing from Singapore. This comprehensive guide helps you navigate the complex, find transportation, and make connections efficiently.

What is JB Sentral?

Overview

Location:

• Central Johor Bahru
• Adjacent to Woodlands Checkpoint (Singapore side)
• Connected by Johor-Singapore Causeway

Functions:

• Malaysian immigration and customs for Woodlands crossing
• Bus terminal (local and long-distance)
• Train station (KTM Komuter)
• Taxi and Grab pickup point
• Shopping and dining facilities

Operating Hours:

• Immigration: 24/7
• Bus terminal: 24/7 (some services limited at night)
• Train station: 5:30 AM - 12:00 AM
• Shops: Varies (mostly 8 AM - 10 PM)

Building Structure

Ground Level:

• Immigration halls (arrival and departure)
• Customs inspection
• Bus bays (Platform A-H)

Level 1:

• Bus ticket counters
• KTM train ticket counter
• Food court
• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, 99 Speedmart)
• Money changers
• ATMs

Level 2:

• Food outlets
• Additional seating
• Prayer room
• Restrooms

Arriving at JB Sentral from Singapore

By Bus

Popular Services:

SBS Transit 170:

• From Queen Street Bus Terminal (Singapore)
• Frequency: 10-15 minutes
• Journey time: 45-90 minutes (depends on immigration wait)

Causeway Link CW1/CW2:

• From Kranji MRT (Singapore)
• Frequency: 8-12 minutes
• Journey time: 30-60 minutes

Process:

1. Board bus in Singapore
2. Bus crosses Woodlands Checkpoint
3. All passengers disembark at Singapore immigration
4. Clear Singapore exit immigration
5. Re-board same bus (keep ticket!)
6. Bus crosses causeway
7. Arrive at JB Sentral immigration level
8. Disembark with luggage
9. Clear Malaysian immigration and customs
10. Exit to JB Sentral arrival hall

Tips:

• Keep bus ticket to re-board after Singapore immigration
• Same bus number continues to JB Sentral
• Immigration can take 20-60 minutes
• Bus waits for all passengers

By Train

KTM Shuttle:

• From Woodlands Train Checkpoint (Singapore)
• Limited daily departures
• Journey time: 5 minutes
• Purchase ticket at Woodlands Train Checkpoint

Process:

1. Clear Singapore exit immigration at Woodlands Train Checkpoint
2. Board KTM shuttle train
3. Cross causeway (scenic but slow)
4. Arrive at JB Sentral train platform
5. Proceed to Malaysian immigration
6. Clear immigration and customs
7. Exit to JB Sentral arrival hall

Note: Infrequent service, check schedule at ktmb.com.my

By Taxi/Grab

From Singapore:

• Singapore taxis generally don’t cross to Malaysia
• Use Grab (Singapore) to Woodlands Checkpoint
• Walk across (bus passengers can walk)
• Use Grab (Malaysia) from JB Sentral

From Malaysia:

• Taxi or Grab directly to JB Sentral
• Will drop at designated area
• Proceed to immigration

Walking

Pedestrian Access:

• Can walk from Woodlands Checkpoint
• ~1 km pedestrian walkway
• Takes 10-15 minutes
• Free (after clearing Singapore immigration)

Navigating JB Sentral

Immigration Process

Entering Malaysia (from Singapore):

Step 1: Enter Immigration Hall

• Follow “Arrival” signs
• Join queue (manual or automated)

Step 2: Immigration Clearance

• Present passport to officer
• Automated QR code gates available (for eligible travelers)
• Officer may ask: Purpose, duration, where staying

Step 3: Customs Declaration

• Red channel: Items to declare
• Green channel: Nothing to declare
• Inspection may be conducted

Step 4: Exit to Arrival Hall

• Proceed to transportation options
• Follow signs

Leaving Malaysia (to Singapore):

Step 1: Enter Departure Hall

• Take escalator/stairs up from ground level
• Follow “Departure to Singapore” signs

Step 2: Customs (if applicable)

• Declare dutiable goods if carrying

Step 3: Immigration

• Present passport
• Officer stamps exit chop

Step 4: Board Transport

• Proceed to bus bays
• Board bus to Singapore
• Will clear Singapore immigration at Woodlands

Finding Your Way Around

Key Landmarks:

Information Counter:

• Level 1, near KTM ticket counter
• Staff can assist with directions
• Maps available

Bus Ticket Counters:

• Level 1, central area
• Multiple operators (Causeway Link, KKKL, Transnasional, etc.)
• Purchase long-distance bus tickets here

Train Ticket Counter:

• Level 1, KTM counter
• For ETS and Komuter train services
• Credit cards accepted

Food Court:

• Level 1, near arrival area
• Mix of local food stalls
• Affordable prices (RM 5-12 per meal)

Convenience Stores:

• 7-Eleven (24-hour)
• 99 Speedmart
• For snacks, drinks, SIM cards

Money Changers:

• Level 1, near immigration exit
• Rates slightly better than checkpoint
• Compare rates before exchanging

ATMs:

• Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank
• Level 1, near convenience stores
• Accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard)

Signage and Language

Languages:

• Bahasa Malaysia (primary)
• English (most signs bilingual)
• Some Chinese on shops

Key Terms:

• Ketibaan = Arrival
• Berlepas = Departure
• Bas = Bus
• Teksi = Taxi
• Tandas = Restroom
• Lelaki = Men
• Perempuan = Women

Transportation from JB Sentral

Local Buses

City Buses:

• Service JB city area
• Fare: RM 1-3 per trip
• Pay cash to driver (exact change preferred)

Popular Routes:

• To City Square: Bus 227, 228
• To KSL Mall: Bus CW7
• To Paradigm Mall: Bus CW5
• To Larkin Bus Terminal: Bus 227

Operating Hours:

• 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM (most routes)
• Frequency: 15-30 minutes

Long-Distance Buses

Major Operators:

• Transnasional (to KL, Penang, Ipoh)
• KKKL Express (to KL, Melaka)
• Sri Maju (to East Coast)
• Causeway Link (express to various cities)

Popular Destinations:

• Kuala Lumpur (4-5 hours, RM 30-50)
• Malacca (2.5 hours, RM 20-30)
• Genting Highlands (5 hours, RM 40-60)
• Penang (7-8 hours, RM 60-80)

Booking:

• Online (busonlineticket.com, easybook.com)
• Ticket counters at Level 1
• Advance booking recommended for weekends

Departure Bays:

• Check ticket for bay number (A-H)
• Arrive 15 minutes before departure
• Luggage stored in bus compartment

Trains (KTM)

Services from JB Sentral:

KTM Komuter (Local):

• To Gemas (intermediate stops)
• Slow service
• Infrequent (check schedule)

ETS (Electric Train Service):

• Express service to KL and beyond
• Comfortable, air-conditioned
• Reserved seating

Popular Routes:

• JB Sentral → Gemas → KL Sentral (6-7 hours)
• Book at ktmb.com.my or ticket counter

Tickets:

• Purchase at KTM counter (Level 1)
• Online booking available
• Show ticket at train platform

Taxis

Types:

Metered Taxis:

• Red and white budget taxis
• Blue (Premier) taxis
• Must use meter (insist if driver refuses)

Coupon Taxis:

• Pre-paid coupon system
• Purchase at taxi counter
• Fixed price to destination

Typical Fares (Metered):

• JB Sentral → City Square: RM 10-15
• JB Sentral → KSL Mall: RM 15-20
• JB Sentral → Mount Austin: RM 25-35

Tips:

• Insist on meter
• Avoid touts offering fixed prices
• Use Grab as alternative

Grab (Ride-Hailing)

Most Convenient Option:

• Download Grab app
• Register with Malaysian phone number OR use roaming
• Set pickup at JB Sentral (designated area)

Benefits:

• Fixed price shown upfront
• Cashless payment
• Track driver location
• Safer than negotiating with taxis

Pickup Point:

• Ground level, near immigration exit
• Look for “Grab Pickup” signs
• Can also use GrabCar, GrabShare

Typical Fares:

• JB Sentral → City Square: RM 8-12
• JB Sentral → KSL Mall: RM 12-18
• JB Sentral → Paradigm Mall: RM 15-20

Surge Pricing:

• Applies during peak hours
• Rainy weather
• Public holidays

Walking to JB City

To City Square (Nearest Mall):

• Distance: ~1.5 km
• Walking time: 15-20 minutes
• Route: Exit JB Sentral, follow Jalan Tun Abdul Razak
• Mostly covered walkways

Safety:

• Safe during daytime
• Be cautious at night
• Watch for traffic when crossing roads

Facilities and Services

Money Exchange

Locations:

• Level 1, near immigration exit
• Multiple changers, compare rates

Typical Rates (2026):

• 1 SGD = 3.3-3.5 MYR (varies)
• Better rates than Woodlands checkpoint
• City center may have slightly better rates

Tips:

• Exchange enough for immediate needs
• Better rates in JB city center (City Square, KSL)
• Keep small notes for local buses/food

Mobile SIM Cards

Where to Buy:

• 7-Eleven (Level 1)
• Phone shops (near arrival area)

Operators:

• Maxis, Celcom, Digi, U Mobile

Tourist SIM Options:

• Prepaid data plans
• 3-7 days unlimited data: RM 15-30
• Registration requires passport

Activation:

• May take 1-2 hours
• Bring passport for registration

Food and Dining

Food Court (Level 1):

• Mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian food
• Nasi lemak, roti canai, char kway teow
• Prices: RM 5-12 per meal
• Operating hours: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Convenience Stores:

• Snacks, drinks, instant noodles
• Microwave available (some stores)
• 24-hour (7-Eleven)

Nearby Options:

• City Square (15-min walk): Food court, restaurants
• KSL City (Grab ride): Large food court, cafes

Restrooms

Locations:

• Level 1 and Level 2
• Near food court and immigration area

Condition:

• Generally clean
• Squat and sitting toilets available
• Bring tissue (sometimes not stocked)

Cost:

• Usually free
• Some may charge RM 0.30-0.50

Luggage Storage

Left Luggage:

• Service available (check at information counter)
• Fees: RM 5-10 per item per day (approximate)
• Operating hours: Limited

Alternative:

• Some shops may hold luggage (ask politely)
• Not recommended for valuables

Prayer Rooms

Location:

• Level 2
• Separate for men and women

Facilities:

• Washing area
• Prayer mats
• Qibla direction indicated

ATMs

Banks:

• Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, RHB
• Accept Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Cirrus

Withdrawal Limits:

• RM 1,500-3,000 per transaction (varies by bank)
• International cards: Check with your bank for fees

Tips:

• Notify bank before traveling
• Avoid using ATM late at night in isolated areas

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arriving from Singapore

After Immigration:

1. Exit to arrival hall (follow “Keluar” / “Exit” signs)
2. Decide on transportation (Grab recommended for beginners)
3. Exchange money if needed
4. Purchase SIM card if staying multiple days
5. Head to destination

Don’t:

• Accept offers from touts
• Agree to taxi without meter
• Exchange all money at first changer (compare rates)

Common Mistakes

1. Not Keeping Bus Ticket:

• Essential for re-boarding after Singapore immigration
• Keep in easily accessible place

2. Insufficient Malaysian Ringgit:

• Exchange in Singapore or at JB Sentral
• Small notes useful for local buses

3. Wrong Platform:

• Check ticket for bus bay (A-H)
• Arrive early for long-distance buses

4. Accepting Taxi Touts:

• Use Grab or metered taxi
• Touts often overcharge

Safety Tips

General:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be aware of surroundings
• Avoid displaying expensive items
• Travel in groups when possible (especially at night)

Taxi Safety:

• Use Grab or registered taxis
• Don’t share taxi with strangers
• Note taxi number

Scam Awareness:

• Money changing scams (recount money)
• Taxi meter “broken” (use Grab instead)
• “Helpful” strangers offering services (politely decline)

Connecting to Other Destinations

To Kuala Lumpur

By Bus:

• Multiple operators
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Price: RM 30-50

By Train:

• KTM ETS (if available)
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• More comfortable than bus

To Malacca

By Bus:

• KKKL Express, Transnasional
• Frequency: Every 1-2 hours
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Price: RM 20-30

To Other Malaysian Cities

Available:

• Ipoh, Penang, Kuantan, Kota Bharu
• Book at counters or online
• Overnight buses available for longer routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I walk from JB Sentral to City Square? A: Yes, 1.5 km walk, 15-20 minutes. Mostly covered. Safe during daytime.

Q: Where do I catch bus back to Singapore? A: Departure level (above arrival). Follow “Departure to Singapore” signs. Clear Malaysian immigration first.

Q: Is Grab available? A: Yes, very reliable. Pickup at designated area on ground level.

Q: Can I buy long-distance bus tickets on the spot? A: Yes, but advance booking recommended for weekends/holidays.

Q: Is there Wi-Fi? A: Limited free Wi-Fi. Purchase Malaysian SIM for better connectivity.

Q: Are there money changers? A: Yes, Level 1 near immigration exit. Compare rates before exchanging.

Summary Checklist

Arriving at JB Sentral:

• Clear Malaysian immigration
• Collect luggage (if applicable)
• Exchange money (if needed)
• Decide on transportation
• Head to destination

Departing from JB Sentral:

• Arrive with sufficient time (account for immigration wait)
• Clear Malaysian exit immigration
• Board transportation to Singapore
• Will clear Singapore immigration at Woodlands

Remember:

• JB Sentral = Malaysian immigration for Woodlands crossing
• Keep bus tickets when traveling from Singapore
• Use Grab for convenience
• Exchange money here for better rates than Woodlands
• Check bus bay number for long-distance buses

JB Sentral is your gateway to Malaysia - understanding its layout and services makes your journey smooth and stress-free.