One of the perks of living right next to our bestie, Malaysia, is the ability to hop in a car and drive up for a quick getaway. Whether you’re a veteran driver or someone who’s just cleared their P plate, we’ve compiled a list of must-knows for when you’re driving to and in JB.
From payment methods for toll fees to apps that you can use to check traffic conditions, here’s the ultimate guide to road tripping across the waters.
Image credit: One Motoring
We’ve all heard our friends and family lament about the horrifying jam at customs, where the waiting time can go as long as 7 hours. It’s such a big hoo-ha that we’ve even done a whole guide on the best time to go JB. TL;DR – try to get to the checkpoints anytime between 12pm-3pm to avoid the pre-and-post-work crowd.
To further facilitate a smoother journey, you can also track the live status of the roads with traffic apps and websites. Apps such as Checkpoint.sg and Jalanow extracts information from LTA’s updates, and provide live camera footage of the customs checkpoints so you can monitor the traffic. These handy platforms also share weather conditions and current exchange rates.
When nearing the customs, have all passports on hand and remove any passport covers so the officer can efficiently check and register your entry. You’ll need to roll down all windows too so the staff can tally each passport to each person in the car.
Once you’ve gotten back the passports, remember to check if every passport has received a correctly dated stamp – it’s uncommon for the staff to miss this step out, but better safe than sorry. You might also be requested to open your car boot for inspection, and the staff might step out to check the amount of petrol you’re entering with as well.
The VEP RFID tag.
Image credit: @francispeh via Instagram
Before entering Malaysia, you’ll need a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). Drivers can register for it via the Vehicle Entry Permit website for RM10 (~S$2.87), and you’ll receive your VEP-RFID tag via post or self-collection at TCSENS VCC in Johor. Take note that there’s a service fee of RM30 (~S$8.61) and postage fee which costs about RM15 (~S$4.31).
Once you’ve gotten it, stick it on your windshield. You’ll also have to download the Touch ‘n Go eWallet app and link it to your VEP-RFID tag. You can then add funds into your Touch ‘n Go wallet to pay for toll charges when driving around JB. Be sure you have sufficient funds to pay the RM20 (S$5.75) fee to enter Johor.
If you haven’t already, you’ll need to apply for a VEP by 1st October, as Malaysia has made it mandatory for all foreign-registered vehicles from Singapore to have it. If you’re still awaiting delivery of your RFID tag, just have your confirmation slip on hand as proof.
Motorbikes do not have to pay toll fees.
Image adapted from: Touch ‘n Go
It’s not mandatory to get a physical Touch ‘n Go card – but you may find it a convenient option to have on hand, especially to make payments when entering shopping mall carparks. It also gives you the option of using the Touch ‘n Go toll lanes on expressways if the RFID lanes are jammed. You can also link your card to your Touch ‘n Go wallet for easy top-ups.
The cards can be bought in Singapore at select Caltex, Sinopec, Shell and SPC petrol stations – including the ones at 50 Chua Chu Kang Avenue 3 and 1091 Woodlands Road – 7-Eleven, and Cheers. All Esso petrol stations carry the cards, but stocks are dependent on availability.
Each card has a 10-year validity and you’ll have to use it at least once a year so it remains active. Topping up your card also re-activates it. Besides the toll booths, the cards can also be used as a payment method at various shops in Malaysia, including select TVG Cinemas and Watsons.
The EZ-Link x Touch ‘n Go Motoring Card is valid for 5 years.
Image adapted from: Carousell
EZ-Link has also collaborated with Touch ‘n Go to launch a dual-use card in 2020. You can store both SGD and Ringgit in the card, and use it to pay for tolls and carpark fees in Malaysia. For Singaporean drivers, you can utilise it for ERP and carpark charges – but note that you can’t use it to pay for public transport fares.
You can get the cards at select 7-Eleven and petrol stations in Singapore like Tampines Street 32 and Hougang Street 61, but there is currently no stock at the time of writing.
In case you were wondering, unless you’re staying in Malaysia for more than 90 days, Singaporean drivers do not need an international driver’s license to drive in Malaysia. So just remember to bring along your SG driver’s license when entering.
“Eh, go in JB pump petrol cheaper la.” – says every Singaporean driver I know. Thanks to the exchange rate, refuelling petrol in Malaysia is more wallet-friendly than in Singapore. However, all drivers must ensure that their fuel tanks are 3/4 full before entering Malaysia, or there will be a fine of up to S$500.
All foreign-registered vehicles are also not allowed to pump the RON95 petrol, so you can go for the R0N97 and RON100 instead. This also means that Malaysians cannot help to fill up a Singaporean vehicle with RON95 petrol as well, so don’t be sneaky and try to find a loophole around this law.
Traffic rules are mostly similar to the ones in Singapore, like using the right lane only to overtake other vehicles, so maintain your usual traffic rule discipline and you’ll be safe. Most drivers tend to drive pretty fast on highways, so if you’re uncomfortable driving at a higher speed, simply stick to the left lanes.
When navigating around Malaysia, you can use apps such as Waze, a popular option among Malaysian drivers and motorists, to track speed limits and road congestions. The app will alert you when approaching a slow-speed zone, so you won’t run the risk of driving over the speed limit. Other common apps like Apple and Google maps can also be used.
Ah, the age-old question. Coming from someone who’s driven into Malaysia countless times, JB is generally a safe place to drive around. Similar to driving in Singapore, don’t leave your personal belongings in the car – this includes taking out your CashCard. If you have to leave your bags or laptops in the car, keep it out of sight and hide it under the seats.
Avoid being seen stowing high-value items in the boot – do this before you leave your residence instead. Stick to parking at proper carparks and steer clear of quieter alleys. Just keep your wits about you and you’ll be good to go.
Okay technically, you are travelling overseas when visiting Malaysia. While most people don’t bother with insurance when driving over, fellow kiasu folks can consider affordable options from companies such as Bubblegum Travel Insurance or Klook that offer pricing from S$29/week. That’s slightly under S$5 per day in exchange for a peace of mind.
Most of us are used to the roads in Singapore, so driving around JB might seem pretty unnerving. To make your journey across the border smoother, make use of the traffic apps and websites available and remember to bring the required documents. Drive safe, pals!
More JB content:
Cover image adapted from: Touch ‘n Go, @caricarzsembangkereta via Instagram
Article originally published on 26th August 2023. Last updated on 30th May 2024.
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