Metro systems across Southeast Asia (SEA) are increasingly adopting advanced signalling, communications and digital technologies to support network expansion, enhance operational reliability and modernise ageing assets. Communications-based train control (CBTC), digital interlocking, real-time monitoring and data analytics are being deployed across both established and emerging urban rail networks. At the same time, metro operators are focusing on integrating new signalling systems with existing infrastructure, renewing legacy assets and strengthening system availability. These developments reflect a broader shift towards technology-enabled metro operations, with greater emphasis on integrated signalling, communications, asset monitoring and data-driven maintenance.
Singapore: CBTC integration and rail reliability
Singapore is undertaking signalling upgrades alongside the expansion and renewal of its mass rapid transit (MRT) network. In August 2026, Hitachi Rail was awarded a contract by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for signalling integration works for two new stations, NS3A and NS6, on the North-South Line. The scope includes system integration, testing and commissioning, with the works being carried out while passenger services continue on the existing line. The two stations will use SelTrac CBTC technology to integrate the new infrastructure with the existing North-South Line signalling system. NS3A is being developed as an infill station on the existing alignment, while NS6 is planned as an interchange with the Downtown Line 2 extension.
The development is taking place alongside wider efforts to strengthen the reliability of Singapore’s rail network. In February 2026, the LTA and the rail operators announced the progressive implementation of recommendations from the Rail Reliability Taskforce. The recommendations include prioritising the renewal of power, signalling and train systems and shortening the time required for system renewal. The LTA is also studying additional operating procedures and bypass systems to enable faster recovery from signalling failures while maintaining safety.
CBTC is also being used in the renewal of the Bukit Panjang LRT system. The existing signalling system has been progressively upgraded to a new CBTC system, alongside the introduction of new and upgraded light rail vehicles and upgrades to the operations control centre. The system is being integrated and tested with the new and upgraded vehicles before full deployment.
Another recent development has been the testing of a backup train control system developed by CASCO. The tests, completed in July 2026, assessed a system intended to provide an additional layer of protection if the onboard signalling system fails. The system uses autonomous positioning, perception and safety functions and is being evaluated by the LTA and MRT. It is not intended to replace the existing CBTC system.
Singapore has also emerged as a test bed for newer digital signalling architectures. In November 2025, Siemens Mobility demonstrated its Signaling X technology at the Singapore Rail Test Centre, marking a live demonstration of the system in a metro operating environment. The technology combines CBTC and interlocking functions within a centralised, cloud-ready signalling data centre architecture. It uses standard information technology hardware- and software-based systems, providing an alternative to conventional signalling architectures that rely on dedicated hardware. The demonstration focused on the integration of train control and interlocking functions within a common digital environment. The technology is intended to support greater system flexibility and facilitate the integration of signalling with digital technologies and future railway applications.
Malaysia: Digital signalling and life cycle support
Malaysia is also upgrading signalling and digital systems across its urban rail network. Kuala Lumpur’s Ampang Line is an example of the increasing focus on combining signalling systems with communications, data analytics and long-term maintenance.
In October 2025, Hitachi Rail was awarded a contract for digital solutions and long-term service support for the Ampang Line. The scope includes integration of different radio networks, data analytics and enhancements to the automatic train supervision (ATS) system. The digital solutions are designed to support real-time monitoring and early detection of anomalies. The contract also includes 10 years of maintenance for the signalling and train control system. The Ampang Line already uses SelTrac CBTC technology.
Malaysia has also deployed CBTC on other Kuala Lumpur urban rail lines, including the Kelana Jaya Line. The focus on long-term service support indicates the increasing importance of maintaining signalling assets over their operating life rather than treating signalling as a one-time infrastructure installation. Data analytics and integrated communications are being incorporated into maintenance and operation systems.
Malaysia is also developing new cross-border rail infrastructure with Singapore. The Johor Bahru-Singapore rapid transit system (RTS) link includes signalling, communications, integrated supervisory control and traction power systems. System integration testing is being undertaken before passenger operations begin. The RTS link is targeted to commence passenger service by December 2026.
Vietnam: Standardised and technology-oriented approach
Vietnam is moving towards a more standardised and technology-oriented approach to metro signalling as it expands its urban rail network. In July 2026, Ho Chi Minh City’s Management Authority for Urban Railways (MAUR) and the Global Technology and Telecommunications Corporation (GTEL) signed a memorandum of understanding covering system integration research and technology transfer for the city’s metro network. The programme will initially focus on Metro Line 2 and projects planned for 2026-30. The technologies under consideration include signalling, communications, power supply, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), operations control centres, automatic fare collection and platform screen doors, with emphasis on developing domestic capabilities.
Hanoi is also preparing for further metro expansion. The proposed extension of Metro Line 2A plans to use CBTC integrated with automatic train protection (ATP) and computer-based interlocking (CBI). A key requirement is technical and operational compatibility with the existing Cat Linh-Ha Dong Line. The extension is expected to strengthen network connectivity while supporting more efficient train control and improved integration with Hanoi’s existing metro infrastructure.
Vietnam has also taken a step towards standardising metro technology. In July 2026, the Ministry of Construction issued QCVN 32:2026/BXD, the country’s first national technical regulation specifically establishing common technical requirements for metro railways. It covers requirements for the investment, design, construction, acceptance and operation of metro systems and will take effect from February 2027.
Steps ahead
Going forward, metro systems across the SEA region are likely to focus on integrated technology deployment covering signalling, communications, and operations and maintenance. The renewal of legacy signalling systems will need to be coordinated with existing passenger services, while new metro lines should incorporate CBTC, ATS, ATP, automatic train operations and digital interlocking from the planning stage. Greater use of condition monitoring and data analytics can support asset management and maintenance activities. Standardised technical frameworks will also be important as networks expand and different systems need to operate together. At the same time, wireless communications and digital platforms can support real-time monitoring and system integration. The focus, therefore, will remain on combining signalling and digital technologies to support network expansion, reliability and technology-enabled metro operations.
