As far as we’re concerned, the safest and cheapest route into Malaysia is via the Tuas and Woodlands Checkpoints. But the waiting time can be abysmal — especially during a festive season or long weekend.
So expect heavy traffic this coming Chinese New Year weekend. The Immigrations & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said it expects the number of travellers to increase from 400,000 to 430,000 during this peak period. In addition they added that travellers “should expect a longer than usual waiting time as there will be tight security checks at the checkpoints.”
As per Singapore’s policy – and in light of recent events – stricter checks for contraband items will be imposed, and drivers are reminded not to be in possession of prohibited items such as firecrackers, while controlled items such as bak kwa, eggs and potted plants are subject to approved countries only.
For passports, ensure there’s at least six months left before the expiry date; and if a reported lost/stolen passport has somehow been recovered, surrender it to ICA immediately. Failure to surrender a recovered passport or attempting to use it is an offence under the Passport Regulations and Passport Act respectively.
In the meantime, for all who will be travelling through the two checkpoints this week, stay safe and have a happy holiday.
