Getting Ready For A Mob-Style Chinese New Year Road Trip
Chinese New Year (CNY) is rolling up the chute, and if you’re planning a jaunt to Malaysia—whether it’s a reunion, a quick foodie spree, or a taste of the local bazaar—you’ll face the inevitable road jam at the Singapore‑Malaysia border. The good news is you can beat the traffic by planning ahead, checking your documents, and playing it smart with customs.
1⃣ Map Out Your Timing
- Singapore‑to‑Malaysia traffic will be sky‑high from Friday 17 Jan 2020 up to Tuesday 28 Jan 2020.
- Malaysia‑to‑Singapore “back‑to‑smooch” traffic spikes from Saturday 25 Jan 2020 through Tuesday 28 Jan 2020.
- The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is sharpening its security tools, so expect a long line at the Woodlands & Tuas checkpoints.
- Your best bet: leave earlier than 17 Jan, or drive after 28 Jan to dodge the wheel‑lock.
- Grab the Motorist App for live checkpoint camera feeds—plan your route like a pro.
2⃣ Passport Validation—No “Expired” Welcome
- Make sure your passport’s validity extends for at least six months. If it’s short, get a new one pronto.
- Carry your passport wherever you cross the step. A misplaced passport is a nightmare that adds to the queue time.
- Lost it? Reset the problem by applying for a fresh identity. Don’t try to re‑use a cancelled passport—seriously.
3⃣ Go Green with the “SG Arrival Card”
- Forget about paper forms. Drop everything in the e‑service or its mobile app.
- Just drop your passport when you hit the checkpoint; the rest is handled digitally.
- It’s environmentally friendly and snazzier—faster time at customs, more time with family.
4⃣ Keep Prohibited Items In the Backseat
- Fireworks, “Pop‑Pop” crackers, and any explosive delights are zero‑tolerance items.
- AVA rules out importing meat, eggs, or oyster varieties from Malaysia.
- Bak kwa or potted plants? Declare them before the security sweep—vigilance saves you from the hassle.
5⃣ Smooth Driving: A Key to a Hassle‑Free Journey
- Beside traffic rules, please respect fellow commuters. Cutting lines can turn a quick trip into a deeper delay.
- Nervous about a delay? Calmness goes a long way—let patience steer the wheel.
- Avoid shortcuts that could spark an accident or leave you stuck in a deadlock.
Quick Tips Recap:
- Road‑trip before 17 Jan or after 28 Jan.
- Passport validated for six months.
- Use the SG Arrival Card e‑service.
- No fireworks or nasties aboard.
- Stay courteous and obey traffic laws.
Enjoy your CNY trip in Malaysia—smoothly, safely, and with all the good vibes you can pack!
