upgrades at Larkin Sentral bus terminal in Johor Baru are expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the ongoing works were part of the second phase of the terminal’s facelift, aimed at providing better facilities for its users.
“The second phase includes upgrading the women’s toilets and constructing a more comfortable air-conditioned bus lounge.
“It also includes improving the departure hall for buses into and from Singapore with a digital bus journey display system,” he said in a statement.
Onn Hafiz said the first phase of the upgrading project, costing RM2.5mil, was completed.
The phase involved upgrading the covered drop-off area, pedestrian walkways, safety fencing, bus lanes and men’s toilets.
“Digital kiosks were also installed for ticket purchases and boarding pass exchanges to make travel arrangements faster and more convenient.”
He added that beyond being a transportation hub, there were also plans to enhance Larkin Sentral as a pilot food court project, under the state’s efforts to address the rising cost of living and empower local traders.
“This initiative will turn the Larkin area into more than just a transit centre.
“It will become a new focal point for inclusive, modern and sustainable economic activity.”
Onn Hafiz also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening its public transportation system to ensure safety, efficiency and sustainability.
“Every improvement implemented is not merely about upgrading infrastructure, but ensuring Johor citizens enjoy more modern, efficient and inclusive facilities.”
Traveller Muhd Shah Ismadi said the bus terminal was a far cry from what it used to be when he was a student years ago.
“I remember the bus terminal being hot, dark and messy when I had to take the bus to Kuala Lumpur during my university days.
“I was pleasantly surprised when I went to Larkin Sentral for a recent trip.
“It looks more modern, well-lit and cleaner now,” Muhd Shah said.
Sales executive Sandra Goh welcomed the upgrades, saying it was crucial to have an efficient public transportation hub as the state geared up for Visit Johor 2026 (VJ2026).
“The bus terminal is an important entry point for foreign tourists and visitors from other parts of the country and it is often where they will get their first impression of Johor.”
She hoped there would be efforts to bring in more stalls at the food court to offer a wider variety of local fare.
“If done right, food courts can also become a great tourism product for Johor, similar to how it is in Singapore,” said Goh, who commutes daily to the island republic for work.
