Singaporeans and Malaysians used to complain of the long journey across the border due to massive jams along Singapore-JB causeway.
Some travellers have been stuck for hours while waiting to go back to their home country, and once it was so long that one woman had to relieve herself at the side of the road.
Now, residents of both countries spend most of their nights dreaming about spending hours stuck in traffic so they can cross the border for a short holiday and some tasty food.
Nowadays, jams along the causeway look a little different, in that it doesn’t actually involve vehicles.
‘Jam’ Spotted in Causeway Today (23 July) As It’s The Last Day That Home Quarantine is Offered
Some Malaysians in Singapore are racing across the border.
That’s because today (23 July) is the last day that people entering the country will be able to serve their quarantine at home.
According to CNA, the Malaysian government has decided to reimpose compulsory quarantine at designated facilities for those entering the country from Friday (24 July).
This was because many had flouted home quarantine.
“The government views the non-compliance of home quarantine very seriously as this has resulted in further spread of the COVID-19 virus to their families and the community surrounding them.
“Their actions are extremely irresponsible and the authorities can take serious action on them including imposing a fine of RM 1,000 (US$235),” he said.
Earlier, on 7 July 2020, the government announced that Malaysians returning from abroad no longer needed to serve their quarantine at hotels or designated centres, and could do so at home instead.
Now, both Malaysians and foreigners will have to serve their quarantine at government facilities.
This has led to a human jam of sorts along the causeway, as Malaysians are rushing to get home before the new order takes effect.
It’s not just the fact that they won’t be able to serve their quarantine in the comfort of their home.
Defence Minister Ismail Sabri said that individuals undergoing quarantine at government facilities will have to bear the cost of accommodation.
Conversely, Sabri said returning Malaysians no longer have to undergo swab tests at the country of departure three days before their flight.
Foreigners, however, are still required to.
The Covid-19 Situation in Malaysia
The number of new Covid-19 infections in the country has dwindled, with fewer than 21 cases reported daily in the last month.
However, 13 new clusters that were detected during the country’s current recovery movement control order (RMCO) phase has prompted concern from authorities, with Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin warning against complacency.
“This situation cannot be taken lightly. I’m sure we do not want the government to return to enforcing a lockdown, if COVID-19 cases rise rapidly. I also pray that we do not have to reach that level,” he said.
Muhyiddin urged people to wear face masks and practise safe distancing, adding that it might soon be compulsory for people to do so.
“The government is considering making mask-wearing compulsory in public spaces. Details will be announced when the relevant regulations have been decided by the government,” he added.
Cross-Border Travel
It may be a while, though, before we can travel to Malaysia for cheap shopping and good food.
While both countries have set 10 Aug as a target date to start cross-border travel, this will only be for some residents and business travellers.
Residents will be allowed to travel under two schemes:
The Reciprocal Green Lane allows cross-border travel for “essential business and official purposes”.
And the Periodic Commuting Agreement will allow residents of both countries who hold long-term immigration passes for business and work purposes in the other country, to enter that country for work.