With the deadline for securing a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) looming, Singaporean drivers are feeling the pressure as they scramble to complete their VEP applications before Malaysia enforces its new regulations on October 1. This necessity for a VEP, which applies to all foreign-registered vehicles entering Malaysia by land, has sent ripples of anxiety throughout the driving community.

Kevin Lee, a 41-year-old construction worker, finds himself in a particularly tight spot. He travels frequently to Johor Bahru for work, relying on his car for the efficiency it provides. “I need to drive, especially since I meet clients often,” he stated, sharing his newfound worry about not having received his RFID tag—integral to the VEP—despite his application being approved three weeks ago. The fear of receiving a hefty fine of up to RM2,000 (about US$475) or facing jail time looms large for him and many others.

Indeed, Kevin is not alone. Numerous drivers have expressed uncertainty about meeting the deadline, with many still pending VEP applications. Some have even started exploring alternative modes of transportation, such as taxis and rental cars, to cross the Causeway. Companies in Johor Bahru specializing in rentals and transport have reported a spike in inquiries and bookings as the deadline approaches. One such business, CTwo Enterprise, noted a 20% increase in bookings, as many former drivers seek alternate arrangements.

As the clock ticks down to October 1, the VEP offices in both Johor Bahru and Singapore's Woodlands have been a hive of activity. Long queues of anxious drivers have formed outside the offices, with many being turned away for lack of pre-scheduled appointments. Interestingly, Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke revealed earlier that a staggering 60,000 applications had been submitted, but nearly 40% of them were incomplete, leading to widespread fears that many may not be ready to comply come the deadline.

The Malaysian Road Transport Department has attempted to ease the situation by opening new centers for vehicle owners to install their VEP tags, but the effectiveness of these efforts remains to be seen. In a recent forum, Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi acknowledged the concerns of Singapore drivers and promised to take action, although specifics have yet to be outlined.

Meanwhile, the idea of crossing into Malaysia without a valid VEP is firmly dismissed by many drivers, who are grappling with the potential risks involved. A retiree, who wished to remain unnamed, shared his trepidations about possible encounters with law enforcement, as he has been waiting for his VEP renewal since 2019. “I don’t want to be a problem for my family while we’re travelling,” he said.

Others have turned to consultancy services to navigate the bureaucratic landscape; the Innox Group is capitalizing on this surge in demand, offering assistance for a fee. Their general manager Christopher Leow commented on the overwhelming interest from drivers, especially those who find the online application process daunting.

As we edge closer to the October deadline, a significant shift in the travel behavior of Singaporeans is expected, with many drivers opting for taxis, buses, or even the KTMB Tebrau Shuttle train service to reach Malaysia. Henry Chua, a civil servant, mentioned planning to take a taxi—a more expensive option, but one he believes is worth the safety it provides.

With the wave of change affecting local businesses in Johor Bahru, fewer Singaporeans crossing the border post-October could lead to challenges for the retail and hospitality sectors, which depend on this influx of visitors.

As uncertainty grips Singaporean drivers, the countdown to October reminds them to act swiftly. Many are left wondering if Malaysia will extend the deadline or alleviate the stringent VEP application process, hoping to avoid the headaches and penalties that could accompany non-compliance.

Stay informed! Will the VEP deadline be postponed? Drivers are keeping their fingers crossed!