S'poreans flocking to JB for nightlife activities, boom expected with RTS Link rail system up & running

Nightlife in Singapore is not as vibrant as it used to be, The Straits Times reported in April and May 2025.

The reasons provided cover an entire spectrum of possibilities as to why this phenomenon is happening.

One reason explored was because Gen Zs are not into traditional nightlife activities.

Another reason was because the pandemic changed people's habits.

Nightlife establishment operators, on the other hand, said it is due to regulations getting tighter, which shortens their viable operating hours, while a manpower squeeze and a weakening global economy is affecting bottom lines.

However, one thing is clear: If Singaporeans want to do stuff at night, could they still be up to something, but elsewhere?

Well, according to 8world on May 29, Singaporeans are flocking to Johor Bahru, Malaysia at night for a host of food, entertainment, and self-care options.

And business at night in areas surrounding KSL City Mall is booming.

Here's what Singaporeans are doing in JB at night, often from 8pm till late.

Massage with added-on services

An owner of a massage parlour, which has opened three outlets over the years with one next to KSL City Mall, said his customer base is 80 per cent Singaporeans.

The focus on implementing and ensuring better customer service, massage techniques, and higher hygiene standards are to satisfy his clientele.

The massage parlour even offers food, such as siew mai.

Car wash with arcade game

According to a car wash business owner in JB, he has re-modelled his business to better cater to the Singaporean crowd.

One way was to set up a massage chair so that customers waiting 45 minutes for their car wash to be done are able to get to relax and enjoy the facilities.

To go the extra mile, a full-fledged car racing arcade game with steering wheel and pedals is also available for car owners to play while waiting.

Indoor pickleball venue

Singaporeans are heading to JB to play pickleball at night.

A pickleball club founder said Singaporeans form 20 to 30 per cent of the club membership.

One Singaporean pickleball enthusiast praised the facilities in Malaysia, saying that the venue indoors is well-maintained, which protects players against the sun and rain.

This is unlike in Singapore, where pickleball venues are located outdoors and those playing are exposed to the elements.

The JB venue is also larger and can accommodate more than 10 people, while Singapore's venues can typically hold up to six people each time.

Wider range of supper options

A young Singaporean said she prefers JB's selection of supper options as they are unique and cheaper.

In Singapore, a hotpot meal at night can cost S$40 to S$50 per pax, which is considered expensive.

In JB, there is the option of lok lok, which is cheaper, as well as a self-service instant noodles joint, where there is a wide variety of flavours of choose from.

Business at the instant noodles joint typically booms on weekends and during school holiday periods.

Expert view

An expert interviewed said the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link between Johor Baru and Singapore operating in 2026 could add to the already bustling nightlife boom.

Top photo via 8world

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