Malaysians Reunite With Families In Singapore After Being Separated For Years

A total of 1,440 qualified individuals can cross the Causeway into Singapore daily on selected buses.

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Church worker June Tan was among the first Malaysians to board the first bus from Malaysia under the land vaccinated travel lane (VTL) on Monday.

Tan, her husband Bruce Tum, and their two kids traveled via the Malaysian bus company known as Causeway Link to get into Singapore.

Adult bus tickets cost S$15 in Singapore and RM20 in Malaysia. Tickets for children cost S$8 and RM10.

We considered ourselves blessed to be able to get bus tickets. We were not sure we can get it, due to the overwhelming demand. Furthermore, the system crashed on day one when the system was open for booking. But good things come to those who wait. We try again in the afternoon and we manage to get tickets.
Church worker June Tan to TRP

Tan said the last time they go back was the Chinese New Year in 2020.

They never expected to go back so soon as we heard many people would be trying their luck with the VTL.

She expressed gratitude to have joined a Facebook group named Malaysia-Singapore Border Crossers (MSBC).

She said all the members are very helpful in sharing information.

Malaysian June Tan speaking to reporters at the Queen Street Bus Terminal. (Credit: Jeanelle Tum)

Meanwhile, Tum described the whole journey as fairly straightforward.

When we arrived at Larkin , it was very orderly. There were only two buses. Only half of each bus was used for seating, the other half was for putting luggages.
Church pastor Bruce Tum to TRP

Tum, who is a pastor at Central Christian Church, said the journey takes a bit longer than pre-pandemic times.

Nevertheless, he said it’s certainly worth the effort especially for those who missed their loved ones across the causeway.

People are just excited to go back. As for us, we plan to take our children to visit Universal Studios Singapore. The kids are excited as this is their first time visiting the theme park.
Church pastor Bruce Tum to TRP

He said the important thing is to make sure all the details are prepared in advance and typed in online for the Singapore side.

Accordingly, travelers to Singapore are required to submit the SG Arrival Card (which contains health declaration information) within three days before arriving.