Reopening of the Singapore-Malaysia borders causes a surge in business in Johor

More than 33,700 travellers cleared the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints on the first day of the Singapore-Malaysia land border reopening (1 April)

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) shared that approximately 280,000 travellers left Singapore for Malaysia using the land checkpoints on 29 and 30 April, reported The Straits Times.

The traffic came ahead of the long weekend, which was in celebration of Labour Day and Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which fell on 1 and 3 May, respectively.

ICA stated on Sunday, “In view of the high number of travellers who are expected to return to Singapore over the next few days, traffic congestion is expected at the land checkpoints.”

More than 33,700 travellers cleared the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints on the first day of the Singapore-Malaysia land border reopening (1 April), according to CNA. This is the first time in two years that those who have been completely vaccinated can travel between countries without having to go through quarantine or take COVID-19 tests.

The reopening has boosted business in Johor, according to Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. After the launch of the 2022 “Semarak Syawal” sales programme, he said, “Today they (traders) are reaping the benefits and it coincides with the Aidilfitri celebration. Many Singaporeans are coming here for shopping; this is a positive development.”

More: Johor leads Malaysia’s influx in real estate transactions in 2021

In a report by Malay Mail, the Deputy Agriculture and Food Industries Minister I Datuk Seri Ahmad Hamzah also expressed his enthusiasm about the borders reopening, saying, “In Johor, the reopening of international borders has had a significant impact, as evident at the Jalan Datin Halimah farmers’ market here where some 40 per cent of its 8,500 visitors are Singaporeans.”

A valid vehicle entrance permit, an approval e-mail from the Land Transport Authority, and a valid Autopass card are required for foreign-registered vehicle drivers entering Singapore.

All short-term visitors, even those granted in-principle authorisation, must submit the SG Arrival Card along with a health statement three days before arriving in Singapore, according to the ICA.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].