**Heavy Traffic Expected at Singapore-Malaysia Land Checkpoints During Chinese New Year**
SINGAPORE: Brace yourselves for heavy traffic at the Singapore-Malaysia land checkpoints this Chinese New Year holiday. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a travel advisory warning travellers to prepare for congestion at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from Jan 24 to Feb 1.
**Record Number of Travellers**
A staggering daily record of over 562,000 travellers crossed the Singapore-Malaysia land border at both checkpoints on Dec 20, 2024. This figure surpassed the previous single-day record set on Dec 13, 2024, which saw 553,000 crossings. During the recent year-end school holidays from Nov 15, 2024, to Jan 1, a whopping 24 million travellers passed through the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, marking a 20% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
“Car travellers departing during peak periods experienced delays of up to three hours for immigration clearance due to traffic tailback from Malaysia,” stated ICA. To alleviate congestion, travellers are encouraged to consider using cross-border bus services as an alternative mode of transportation.
**Things to Take Note**
ICA emphasized the importance of checking passport validity, especially ensuring a remaining validity of at least six months. Singapore permanent residents who have renewed their passports must transfer their re-entry permits to the new passports. Long-term pass holders are advised to update ICA or the Ministry of Manpower with any changes in passport details before re-entering Singapore.
For quicker immigration clearance, ICA recommended car travellers to utilize QR codes instead of passports. Foreign vehicle drivers must ensure the validity of their Vehicle Entry Permits (VEP) and settle any outstanding fines to avoid being turned away at the checkpoints.
**Stay Informed, Stay Safe**
As you prepare for your Chinese New Year travels, remember to adhere to traffic rules, cooperate with ICA officers, and maintain lane discipline. Let’s make this festive season a safe and enjoyable one for everyone on the roads. Travel smart, travel safe!