Motorists who attempt to bypass traffic congestion by cutting queues at the Tuas Checkpoint face severe consequences, including being denied entry into Malaysia, according to Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Highlighting the issue in a Facebook post, he expressed his appreciation for the Royal Malaysia Police officers stationed at the Sultan Abu Bakar Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (KSAB) during the Vesak Day long weekend.
To deter queue cutting at the Tuas Checkpoint, traffic cones have been strategically placed near KSAB, obstructing potential offenders.
Additionally, Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has marked the two-lane viaduct leading to Woodlands Checkpoint with double white lines, and enforcement cameras have been installed to discourage the misuse of the motorcycle lane for queue jumping.
He said that vehicles that are found cutting queues will not be allowed to enter Malaysia, and will be sent back to Singapore.
Netizens have responded positively to these measures, advocating for increased checkpoint enforcement and expressing gratitude towards those who patiently wait in line for hours. Suggestions have been made for 24/7 police presence at the checkpoints, particularly during peak periods.
Since the start of the Vesak Day long weekend, both the Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints have experienced “unusual congestion” due to increased travel volume caused by the holiday and school break. Over 258,000 travelers crossed the Causeway on Thursday night alone, with an additional 63,000 using the Second Link. The resulting queues have led to extensive delays, with travelers waiting for up to seven hours.
To prevent similar congestion in the future, CM Onn Ghazi has urged the management of both checkpoints to consider opening dedicated counters for pedestrians and public transport, particularly during holidays.
He has also requested the collaboration of various Malaysian authorities, such as the Immigration Department, the Royal Customs Department, the Royal Malaysian Police, and the Malaysian Volunteer Department, to ensure the efficient flow of traffic across the border.
These proactive measures aim to address the issue of queue cutting, enhance traffic management, and provide a smoother travel experience for all commuters using the Tuas Checkpoint and Causeway.