What impact does the VTL suspension have on Malaysians with family in Singapore?

Question

Accepted Answer

VTL Suspension Disrupts Family Reunions and Travel Plans for Malaysians

The suspension of the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) between Singapore and Malaysia has significantly impacted numerous Malaysians, particularly those with family members residing in Singapore, leading to postponed plans for family gatherings, weddings, and even impacting cross-border employment. The freeze on new ticket sales, which commenced on December 23 and is slated to last until January 20, has dashed the hopes of many who were looking forward to reuniting with loved ones. While individuals who had already secured tickets are permitted to travel under the quarantine-free scheme, those without prior bookings face considerable uncertainty.
Hopes for Family Reunification Dashed

For many Malaysians like Jamaludin Abdul Ghani, a retiree from Johor Baru, the VTL offered a long-awaited opportunity to reconnect with family. Having not seen some of his children and grandchildren since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, his plans to travel to Singapore were halted by the suspension. He expressed disappointment but acknowledged the governments' efforts to curb the spread of the Omicron variant. His intention to travel after January 21 is now uncertain, as the quota for land crossings is set to be halved from 48 to 24 buses daily after the restrictions are lifted.
Wedding Plans Postponed Amidst Ticket Scarcity

The VTL suspension has also led to the postponement of significant life events. Nafisah Alahu, a Malaysian hairstylist working in Singapore, had to delay her wedding, which was planned for the Chinese New Year period. Despite having travelled home recently, she was unable to secure a bus ticket back to Malaysia for her wedding due to the high demand and subsequent suspension of new ticket sales. Her wedding plans are now contingent on her ability to obtain a ticket once the VTL potentially resumes.
Concerns Over Long-Term Border Reopening

The uncertainty surrounding the resumption of the VTL has also fostered anxiety among those who frequently commuted between the two countries for work or family. Thamil Muthu, a Singapore permanent resident from Malaysia working as a senior process technician, expressed concern that the travel lane might not reopen even after January 20, given the global spread of the Omicron variant. He highlighted the emotional toll of separation from his family in Johor Baru and voiced a collective hope for the scheme's reinstatement to facilitate family visits.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What impact does the VTL suspension have on Malaysians with family in Singapore?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends