Abstract
Borders compartmentalise people, restricting their access to resources. Different border conditions exist. Some are violent and offer zero access, while others allow for an uninhibited flow of people across the two sides. In the case of Malaysia and Singapore, despite their historical affinities, the two neighbours have long contested over the Johor Straits. Consequently, what was once unified are today edge communities that lead contrasting lifestyles. The Johor Straits is stagnant, devoid of cross-border activity other than the commute of workers and delivery of goods. Is there a way to bridge this disparity and regain the lost connectedness? With the Rapid Transit System between Johor and Woodlands set to commence operations in end 2026, the space bounded by this transit link and the existing Causeway creates a safe enclosure where communities can come together. This thesis posits that the shared food culture and common goal of food security can be manifested to enliven the Singapore-Malaysia border condition. The friendly rivalry between the two nations does not only take place at the macro level. In fact, things often get heated up in the kitchen, when the two sides argue as to whose rendition of a local dish is the best. Carried out as a phased development, this project proposes a shared food hub across the Straits of Johor to bring Malaysians and Singaporeans together.