KUALA LUMPUR: Singaporean motorists are now required to make an appointment before visiting Malaysia's Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) information counter in Woodlands.
According to Singapore's The Straits Times, the measure was implemented to manage the large crowds at the VEP office located at 186 Woodlands Industrial Park E5.
The daily reported that the VEP information counter was operated by a Singaporean firm, MY VEP, and is staffed by two counter personnel, three technical support staff, and one manager.
"Previously, Singaporean motorists seeking assistance had to travel to Danga Bay in Johor Baru.
"However, despite the opening of the new counter in Woodlands, drivers have expressed frustration not only with the long queues but also with the limited range of services available," it reported.
Following this, visitors must now make an online appointment via the website www.myvep.com.sg/appointment by providing their name and vehicle registration number. Time slots are available by the hour between 9am and 5pm.
Previously, Transport Minister Anthony Loke had announced that Malaysia would enforce the VEP for all foreign vehicles entering from Singapore, beginning Oct 1.
He had said the move would ensure that all road users fully comply with Malaysian road regulations.
"Anyone driving a foreign motor vehicle without a VEP before entering or while in Malaysia is committing an offence in accordance with Section 66H (7) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
"If convicted, they may be fined up to RM2,000 or imprisoned for up to six months, as stipulated in Section 119 (2) of the act," he had said.