Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution has announced that Singaporeans with e-passports can now use the automatic electronic gate (e-gate) facilities at the two land entry points in Johor Bahru to enter Malaysia. The measure is part of the short-term solutions by the ministry to curb congestion at both checkpoints.
As reported by The Straits Times, Singaporeans with e-passports can enter using the aforementioned e-gates since yesterday (20 January 2023). Previously, the e-gate facilities were only limited to the use of Malaysian passport holders, with the immigration department potentially expanding the use to travellers from other low-risk countries such as Brunei, New Zealand, Britain, Australia and Japan.
In order to enter via the e-gates, Singaporeans must hold e-passports with a validity of at least three months and submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before travel. Moreover, first-time users must also verify their biometrics at the immigration counter.
Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) also provides automated lanes for eligible Malaysians who may be enrolled on the spot. In fact, since May 2022, ICA has implemented Automatic Clearance Initiative which allows eligible Malaysians to be enrolled for the use of automated lanes at all Singapore checkpoints.
So, what do you guys think of this initiative by the Immigration Department and the Home Ministry? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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