Introduction

In a surprising turn of events, Malaysia has postponed the enforcement of the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) requirement, allowing Singapore-registered vehicles without the necessary tags to continue crossing into Malaysia from October 1. This decision, announced by the Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) just days before the previously set deadline, has come as a relief to many drivers.

New Implementation Plan

Under the new phased implementation plan, drivers entering Malaysia will receive reminders to register for and install their VEP radio frequency identification (RFID) tags at land borders. JPJ confirmed, “All vehicles from Singapore who do not have a VEP can enter Malaysia as usual.” However, the reminder system is designed to encourage prompt registration for those who have not yet complied.

Warning Notices

In addition, drivers will receive warning notices before leaving Malaysia if they have still not completed their VEP installation, which could be crucial in avoiding potential legal troubles.

Concerns Among Drivers

This update follows a growing concern among Singaporean drivers who have faced challenges like lengthy queues and technical glitches while trying to secure their VEPs ahead of the deadline. Many have been rushing to install the RFID tags amidst frustrations with application snags linked to vendor services in Johor Bahru.

Expanded Installation Centers

To address the overwhelming demand, Malaysia has opened additional centers—one at Woodlands and two more in Johor Bahru—to enhance the tag installation capacity significantly.

Status of VEP Installations

As of September 25, over 62,000 Singapore-registered vehicles have successfully activated their VEPs, but the race continues for the rest. Singaporean drivers are keenly eyeing the clock, with mixed feelings about the legality of crossing the border after the October 1 deadline if they haven't installed their VEPs by then.

Transport Minister's Statement

Transport Minister Anthony Loke first announced the VEP requirement back in May, signaling a shift in policy that had been anticipated since the system’s introduction in 2019. Initially, motorists who defy these regulations face fines up to RM2,000 (approximately US$484) or even imprisonment for six months, which further escalates the sense of urgency among those yet to comply.

Incomplete Applications

In August, during a visit to a VEP collection office, Loke revealed that nearly 60,000 applications had been submitted, with many identified as incomplete. He expressed concern that an additional 50,000 applications would pour in before the deadline, emphasizing, “Entering Malaysia without the VEP after October 1 will mean breaking the rules.”

Conclusion

With the recent alterations to enforcement, it's clear that the Malaysian government is striving to balance regulatory measures while accommodating the influx of Singaporean vehicles that frequent cross-border travel. Keep an eye on this developing story as further updates may arise!