Seeing that the Christmas and New Year holidays are coming, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) would like to remind you that it’s gonna get even more swarming than it already is at the borders into Malaysia.
Traffic volume at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints is expected to build up from tomorrow onwards and will continue to be frustratingly congested till Jan 3, a Sunday. “Travellers using the land checkpoints during this period can expect delays,” ICA wrote. Yeah, no shit.
But then again, why even bother trying to get into Malaysia through the land checkpoints these days? Even before the Christmas/New Year period, checkpoints right now are already packed to the brim (both on foot and in vehicle) which motorists say can last as long as five hours to power through. The massive traffic jams are exacerbated by ICA’s heightened security measures put in place following the attacks in Paris.
ICA also issued some tips for travellers who will be using the land checkpoints — including car-pooling where possible, the use of automated passport clearance system, ensuring that passports are valid before presenting them and not to bring prohibited goods into or out of the country.
“The ICA will continue to take the necessary measures to improve clearance efficiency as much as possible without compromising security,” they wrote in a press release.
“We seek travellers’ understanding and cooperation when using the land checkpoints during the peak period,” which is a polite way of saying that you better nut up or shut up if you’re going to be travelling through.
