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TransitLink and EZ-Link to merge for one-stop access to payment services

LTA's TransitLink and EZ-Link to merge their payment services into one app, and consider merging into single entity

LTA's TransitLink and EZ-Link to merge payment services into one app and eventually become one entity in second half of 2024
LTA's TransitLink and EZ-Link to merge payment services into one app and eventually become one entity in second half of 2024. (PHOTO: Getty Images)

SINGAPORE — Commuters in Singapore can now expect a simpler and more streamlined experience when paying for their public transport fares.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced on Tuesday (28 March) that its two wholly-owned subsidiaries, TransitLink and EZ-Link, will soon be integrating their ticketing and travel card-related services into one app.

Both entities also plans to merge into a single entity in the second half of 2024.

This will provide a one-stop customer service touchpoint for commuters and simplifying the payment process for bus and MRT rides.

Previously, commuters had to access separate mobile applications and deal with different customer support teams depending on whether they were using TransitLink or EZ-Link.

For example, while they could buy and top up their EZ-link cards via both EZ-Link and TransitLink, they would have to use EZ-Link exclusively for specific functions such as card blocking and automatic top-ups.

This will no longer be necessary once the two companies are fully integrated.

Single customer service point for commuters

In a statement, the LTA said, "Unifying all transit ticketing and travel card-related services will provide a one-stop customer service touchpoint for commuters,"

While the consolidation of transit services is taking place, commuters can continue to approach TransitLink and EZ-Link for their respective services, the LTA said.

Commuters may also continue using their existing mobile applications, and there will be no change to how commuters pay their fares, the LTA added.

According to the LTA, the integration of TransitLink and EZ-Link's services is timely, given the evolution of the transit payment landscape.

Currently, one in two adult public transport trips are made using SimplyGo, an account-based system that allows commuters to pay for train and bus rides using their bank cards, the LTA said.

With adoption expected to grow further as more categories of concession cards are upgraded to support it, the consolidation of services is expected to benefit commuters, the LTA added.

The merger of TransitLink and EZ-Link will also unlock new innovation and business opportunities, the LTA said. The move may also result in new job roles being created and redeployment of staff, but the LTA said no jobs will be cut due to the merger.

Said LTA chief executive Ng Lang, "We will work closely with TransitLink and EZ-Link in the restructuring process to ensure a smooth transition for staff and commuters."

Both TransitLink and EZ-Link were created by LTA for different purposes - in 1987, TransitLink handled the fare transactions, ticketing and topping up of travel cards, and in 2002, EZ-Link handled sales, distribution, and management of EZ-Link cards.

More details about merger and integration of services will be announced when plans are finalised, said LTA.

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