ONE of the busiest border crossings in the world, the Johor–Singapore Causeway, officially reopened today with the launch of the land Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL-Land).

It was jointly launched by Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and his Singapore counterpart Lee Hsien Loong at the Woodlands checkpoint.

The 97-year old Causeway, also known as Tambak Johor, was closed for 400,000-odd travellers daily since mid-March last year to curb the spread of Covid-19. 

Ismail crossed the 1km bridge entering the republic from Johor Baru this morning before he and his delegation were welcomed by Lee, who was accompanied by four of his ministers.

In announcing the VTL-Land scheme on November 24, the Prime Minister’s Office said the initial stage will be limited to only bus transportation with a daily quota not exceeding 1,500 travellers.

Other modes of land transportation will be included in stages with the daily quota of travellers to be increased on a weekly basis.

The initiative aims to facilitate quarantine-free, seamless cross-border movement integrating health protocol, security, and immigration clearance.

The Singapore-bound designated VTL-Land bus services will use Larkin Sentral Bus Terminal as the boarding and disembarkation point in Malaysia, whereas Queen Street Terminal as the boarding and disembarkation point in Singapore.

Travellers allowed to take part in this scheme are Malaysia and Singapore citizens and permanent residents as well as holders of Malaysia and Singapore long-term pass.

The launch of VTL-Land also coincides with VTL-Air.

The VTL-Air between Changi Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport was announced on November 8.

Malaysia and Singapore have vaccinated more than 95% their adult populations. This has presented opportunities for both countries to reopen the land border in a gradual, safe, systematic and sustainable manner. – Bernama, November 29, 2021.