It is a game changer. The HSR is a pet project of Najib and LHL. Both of them had multiple discussions on how to improve bilateral trade and relations. This is the one of the key outcomes of the bilateral discussion. The aim is to promote economic growth by doing more businesses with one another via greater connectivity and closeness.
Of course, you can still travel to KL from Singapore via flights and/or cars. But the HSR can cut down the travel time from 5 hours to just 90 mins. With this arrangement, you can close a deal in the morning, go for lunch in KL and come back to Singapore on the same day. Your boss is happy. Your wife is happy.
But really, if you have seen the URA Master Plan, the Singapore HSR terminus which ends in Jurong East ( now the defunct Jurong Country Club ) is part of the bigger scheme of things to come. The whole Jurong East region is going to be the central hub for entertainment, shopping , medical and leisure. In fact , it is going to be the second CBD ; aptly named the Jurong Lake District.