Land crossings to Malaysia to open up to all fully vaccinated travellers on 1 April

The wait is finally over. 

As part of a slew of further reopening measures unveiled on 24 March 2022, the authorities have announced that land travel between Singapore and Malaysia will be reopened to all fully-vaccinated individuals on 1 April, without the need for a COVID-19 test or for quarantine. Non fully-vaccinated children below the age of 12 will also be allowed to travel as such. 

Although the land border with Malaysia had previously been reopened to some degree in November last year, the land VTL (Vaccinated Travel Lane) at that point had only been reserved for travellers who were citizens, permanent residents or long-term pass holders of the country they were entering. Negative pre-departure test results were also required at that point. 

Thursday's announcement, however, marks a step in the direction back towards pre-COVID times; even non-residents, or people not travelling for employment, will now be able to shuttle between the two countries. The new measures also allow for travelling via private vehicles like cars and motorcycles, meaning, of course, that those weekend trips up to JB are now again within reach. Bus services across the border are set to resume soon as well. 

The MTI (Ministry of Trade and Industry) has, however, reminded motorists not to rush to travel if they have no urgent need for it. Priority remains for the smooth travel of those with essential needs, such as individuals travelling for employment or to reunite with their families. 

The LTA has also reminded travellers entering Singapore that foreign vehicles need to obtain a valid Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) before driving in. Applications for the permit are now open, and can be done online.