Theta takes a leap into sustainable urban transport with hybrid MaaS initiative in Johor Bahru

SHAH ALAM – Theta Edge Berhad (Theta) is taking a significant step forward in its transformation journey by venturing into urban mobility.

The leading ICT company leveraged its expertise in civil mechanical engineering, telecommunications and technology to introduce Mobility as a Service (MaaS), which aimed to enhance urban mobility and sustainability.

As part of its commitment to sustainable development, Theta, in collaboration with the Nylex Consortium, is delivering a cost-effective hybrid public transport solution in Johor Bahru, integrating Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) systems.

The solution was designed to cater to the growing population of the city, offering scalable, flexible and efficient mobility options.

Theta Chief Executive Officer Datuk Nuraslina Zainal Abidin expressed excitement about the collaboration with industry-leading partners who bring cutting-edge technology and expertise to the project.

“Together, we aim to deliver a truly innovative and sustainable MaaS solution that will positively transform urban mobility. This project is a key part of our vision to create a technologically advanced and connected future,” she said in a statement.

Theta highlighted several key advantages of the hybrid LRT-ART system, where the ART was expected to reduce congestion and waiting times, enhancing the efficiency of both the LRT and Malaysia's Rapid Transit System (RTS).

Designed to serve both high- and low-density areas, the system would expand transport options for a wider range of commuters.

Additionally, the hybrid solution was cost-effective, lowering construction and operational costs while providing a sustainable, long-term transportation strategy.

The system was also scalable, designed to grow alongside the city's population and urban development.

The involvement in the project, Theta said, was aligned with its five-year strategic value creation plan, which emphasises continuous innovation, strong partnerships, and sustainability.

It added the Johor Bahru LRT-ART project also supported Malaysia’s Twelfth Malaysia Plan and its commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

By leveraging the collective expertise within both consortiums, this collaboration is poised to deliver a cutting-edge transportation system that will significantly enhance urban mobility, contribute to economic growth, and improve the quality of life for residents in Johor Bahru.

Notably, the strategic partners involved in this project have extensive experience in executing large-scale rail projects both locally and internationally.

These include China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, China Energy International Corporation Limited, and BTS Group Holdings PCL.