Heavy traffic expected at Singapore-Malaysia land checkpoints during September school holidays

Drivers preparing to enter Malaysia during the September school holidays can anticipate significant delays and congestion at both the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, according to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The advisory, issued on August 31, advises motorists to plan their trips early, travel during off-peak hours, and monitor the traffic situation through the Land Transport Authority’s OneMotoring website, which provides live traffic updates for the checkpoints.

The ICA has also introduced QR codes via the MyICA mobile app to expedite immigration clearance. However, car-lane closures at Tuas checkpoint starting in September are part of ongoing renovations for a new automated border clearance system. During the recent National Day weekend from August 7 to 10, motorists faced waiting times of up to three hours due to traffic congestion from Malaysia.

Over the four-day period, more than 2.1 million travelers crossed both checkpoints, with 13 motorists cited for traffic violations like queue-cutting.

These enforcement actions included U-turns to rejoin queues, with two foreign-registered vehicles banned from entering Singapore and others facing referral to the Traffic Police for potential prosecution. The ICA emphasizes the need for motorists to follow instructions, maintain lane discipline, and comply with traffic rules, warning of "firm action" against those who do not adhere.