Very heavy traffic expected at Woodlands, Tuas checkpoints across Good Friday, Qing Ming and Hari Raya Puasa period from 28 March to 14 April: ICA
The ICA also shared travellers departing by car had to wait for up to three hours during the peak periods of the March holidays.
SINGAPORE — With the upcoming Good Friday, Qing Ming Festival and Hari Raya Puasa period, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has reminded travellers to Malaysia to expect very heavy traffic at the border.
Those planning to visit Malaysia both in the lead-up and during the period of 28 March to 14 April should factor in additional waiting time at Singapore's two land checkpoints at Woodlands and Tuas, the ICA said on Monday (25 March).
"Traveller volume at the land checkpoints has been increasing since border reopening and has far surpassed pre-COVID levels," the ICA said.
Peak period waiting time for cars up to three hours
The agency added that during the previous peak period over the March holidays, travellers departing by car had to wait up to three hours before they were cleared through immigration, due to traffic tailback from Malaysia.
The ICA recently implemented a QR code system for immigration clearance aimed at speeding up the process for travellers in cars.
With the upcoming public holiday and festival period, the ICA is encouraging car travellers to utilise the QR codes for clearance.
Travellers who do so are also reminded to still carry their passports, as it may be required for verification in some cases.
5.1 million travellers during March holidays
According to the ICA, during the recent March school holidays from 8 to 18 March, more than 5.1 million travellers crossed Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints.
The agency also saw the highest recorded number of travellers (close to half a million travellers) crossing the land checkpoints on 15 March.
"Travellers are thus advised to factor in additional waiting time. We seek their understanding and cooperation to be patient, observe traffic rules, maintain lane discipline, and cooperate with ICA officers," the agency said.
Reminders for foreign vehicle drivers
Motorists driving foreign vehicles are reminded to ensure the validity of their Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). ICA added that applications for the permit would no longer be accepted at the checkpoints, as doing so "impedes traffic flow". Those who do not have a valid Autopass card, VEP approval email from the Land Transport Authority (LTA), or valid insurance will be denied entry.
Furthermore, ICA advises drivers of foreign vehicles to settle any outstanding fines, warning that those with unresolved fines might be denied entry into Singapore.
Payment options for such fines include online methods such as AXS kiosks, the AXS website, the AXS mobile app, PayNow, and various relevant agencies’ e-services websites. Offline payment options include visiting the customer service counters of relevant agencies and SingPost outlets.
Travellers are encouraged to seek clarification on any offences from relevant government bodies such as the Singapore Police Force (Traffic Police), Housing Board, LTA, National Environment Agency, and Urban Redevelopment Authority.
Check traffic conditions
Motorists can check the traffic situation at the Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints via the One Motoring website or the Expressway Monitoring & Advisory System installed along the BKE and AYE.
They can also get updates through ICA's Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts, as well as local radio broadcasts on Kiss92, One 91.3, Hao 96.3 and UFM 100.3 stations.
Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.
