A momentous day indeed, Malaysia and Singapore have finalised on the border crossing arrangement after 4 months of closure. Since the MCO in March 18, Malaysia and Singapore closed all borders for its citizens to commute in accordance to the Health Ministry’s directive under the Dangerous Disease Act.

Covid-19 impacted both nations to the extent of having borders closed which has never happened since Singapore’s independence back in 1965. The new agreement harks back the days of when the City State ceased from being part of Malaysia and at that time drew up policies for both country’s citizens to move in and out of their respective country.

Eager folks have been waiting for the day for them to resume commuting especially for Malaysians residing in Johor who find a living across the Straits. Based on the implementation of Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) and Periodic Commuting Arrangement (PCA) the targeted date for this to take effect is slated to be Aug 10, this year. Both parties have discussed and agreed on the terms and will be releasing the guidelines 10 days prior to the opening.

As of now only official business and essential workers to cross via the Reciprocal Green Lane program however they will need to comply with SOP’s and PCR swab test. For permanent residence and those with long term Visa can also commute under the Periodic Commuting Arrangement which allows 3 months stay after which they can return. Plans are being discussed for daily commuting as well.

This will be a key step towards more travel bubbles planned by Malaysia, the Foreign Minister is also discussing matters with Vietnam, Brunei and Thailand as we understand. Australia was initially in the list but has since been KIV’ed due to the recent outbreak in Melbourne and Sydney.