Starting August 19, Singaporean drivers with questions about their Malaysia Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) will have a dedicated info counter in Woodlands, as announced by Malaysia’s Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Contact Details For VEP
| MY VEP Pte Ltd (Woodlands – Singapore) | VEP Collection Centre (Johor – Malaysia) |
| 186 Woodlands Industrial Park E5, #03-01, Singapore 757515 +60 3-7941 2888 | 17, EDL, Kampung Bendahara, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia +60 3-7941 2888 |
TCSens, the private vendor chosen by JPJ, will handle all things VEP – from applying for the permit to displaying the RFID tag on cars.
Why a New Office?
While TCSens has been running a centre in Danga Bay, Johor Bahru, the recent announcement by Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke has led to a surge in visitors.
From October 1, foreign-registered vehicles entering Johor from Singapore must have a VEP, or face fines or entry bans.
During his visit to the Danga Bay centre on August 1, Mr Loke noted the increasing activity and the need for a Woodlands counter. He mentioned that this new centre would operate in collaboration with Singapore partners and that a hotline, active for 16 hours daily, would be available for inquiries.
Since the May 28 announcement, the Danga Bay centre has been packed, a stark contrast to its quieter days over the past two years. The VEP system, initially announced in 2017, faced delays in 2019 and 2020 due to issues with the RFID tag installation and registration.
To meet the demand, TCSens plans to extend its operating hours into the night, hiring more staff to manage the influx. Mr Loke reported that the Transport Ministry has received 58,791 applications through the portal and physical counters, with a notable spike in the last two months. An additional 50,000 motorists are expected to apply before the October deadline.
Common Challenges
Many motorists have shared their struggles with the VEP application process. Those who visited the Danga Bay centre often resolved their issues and received their tags the same day.
From October 1, enforcement will be strict. More than 80% of the 18,000 cars entering Johor’s checkpoints daily currently do so without a VEP. Mr Loke plans another inspection in early October to ensure compliance. Motorists must activate their VEP-RFID tag within seven days of receiving it. If they forget, they can reactivate it via the application portal, similar to requesting a new OTP for banking transactions.
Mr Loke emphasised that this measure aims to ensure compliance, not to deter foreign drivers. “We welcome Singaporeans to JB to spend and boost the economy. They just need to abide by the laws,” he added.
Well, let’s hope his side of the bargain on efficiency and implementation remains true.
Photo Credits: fotoBERNAMA & The Straits Times
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