Johor Chief Minister Claims Land VTL Between JB & S’pore to Start on 29 Nov for Pass Holders

You may not remember it, but if you ask your grandparents or great-grandparents, they’ll tell you that there was once a time when Singaporeans and Malaysians could cross the border separating the two countries whenever they wished.

This was so long ago that historians can’t place an exact date, but it’s rumoured to be sometime around 1 BC (Before COVID-19).

At that time, Singaporeans would cross to the other side regularly for some tasty food and cheap shopping. It was one of our biggest weekly pleasures.

Well, believe it or not, this cherished pastime may soon be available to us again.

Johor Chief Minister Claims Land VTL Between JB & S’pore to Start on 29 Nov for Pass Holders

Everyone knows about the air Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) we have with Malaysia that’s due to begin on 29 Nov, but there’s apparently more plans in store for that date.

The Chief Minister of Johor, Hasni Mohammad, has claimed that a “land border crossing” between Singapore and Johor would be implemented on 29 Nov as well.

He said he was able to confirm this after speaking to both federal and state government authorities.

This is what the Chief Minister said while speaking at the opening of a hotel in Johor:

“I have good news to share, we have communicated with the authorities from the federal and state governments and confirmed that the land border crossing will open on 29 Nov.

“Travelling on land between Singapore and Johor Bahru will only be for long term pass (border) holders, those working in Singapore, and Singaporeans working in Johor Bahru.”

Now, before you get upset at what appears to be a clickbait headline, read what he said next:

“The federal government is considering making land travel arrangements between Singapore and Johor Bahru, similar to the arrangement between Changi to KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport).”

That’s right, an arrangement that is “similar” to our air VTL that will launch on 29 Nov with Malaysia can only mean one thing – fully vaccinated residents crossing the border on land for leisure travel.

The Singapore government has not made any announcement on this matter as of yet, however.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry has, however, noted that many families have not been able to see each other for many months, and that reuniting them will be one of their priorities upon reopening.

Meanwhile, I’m still waiting to be reunited with Hiap Joo’s banana cake.

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