Cross-border travel is supposed to be about cheap petrol, better exchange rates and maybe some supper in Johor Bahru. But for one Singapore motorist, the trip allegedly came with an unexpected “service charge” — otherwise known in local slang as kopi money.
The driver claimed that while clearing immigration at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex, a man dressed in a green uniform stepped forward to “assist” with a low-balance Touch ’n Go card. Instead of smooth traffic flow, the motorist said he ended up lighter by RM100 — approximately S$32.53 — with no successful top-up in sight.
The alleged incident took place around noon at the Johor Bahru checkpoint, a location familiar to many Singaporeans who regularly cross via the Causeway for work, shopping or weekend makan trips.
“Help You Settle” — But Balance Never Appear
According to the motorist’s account, he realised his Touch ’n Go card had insufficient funds while at the checkpoint. After stepping out of his vehicle, he was approached by the supposed “officer”, who reportedly instructed him to park near the immigration counters.
The man then allegedly collected the driver’s Touch ’n Go card along with RM100 in cash, assuring him that he would handle the reload. When the card was returned, the motorist was told the updated balance would only reflect the following day — a statement that might sound reassuring in the moment, especially when cars behind are honking.
To keep traffic moving, the “officer” allegedly used his own Touch ’n Go card to clear the vehicle through the gantry. When the driver considered checking with the official counter, he was reportedly encouraged to move along quickly.
Only later did the motorist discover that no top-up had been processed.
Police Report Lodged, Officers Praised
After realising the transaction did not go through, the driver lodged a report at the police station within the CIQ complex. Officers from the Royal Malaysia Police were said to have attended to him.
In his written account, the motorist described the officers as polite and professional, adding that they handled the situation seriously and provided reassurance during what he called a stressful experience.
While investigations are presumably ongoing, the incident has once again sparked conversations among Singapore drivers about vigilance at border checkpoints. With rising discussions around scam prevention, travel insurance, and cross-border consumer protection, motorists are reminded to top up their Touch ’n Go cards only at authorised counters or official kiosks.
After all, in today’s digital payment era — whether it’s e-wallet security, fraud detection, or identity verification — even a small cash transaction can turn into an expensive lesson.
For those heading across the Causeway, perhaps the safest approach is simple: if someone says they can “help you settle”, make sure it’s the official kind — not the kopi money kind.