Why have Malaysians in Singapore struggled to reunite across the Causeway?

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Malaysians in Singapore Faced Challenges Reuniting Across the Causeway Due to Covid-19 Restrictions

Malaysians residing in Singapore have experienced significant difficulties in reuniting with their families across the Johor Causeway, a situation primarily attributed to the stringent Covid-19 restrictions that have impacted Lunar New Year celebrations for consecutive years. These measures have disrupted traditional family gatherings, a cornerstone of the festive period, making cross-border travel arduous and often impossible.
Covid-19 Restrictions Dampened Festivities

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a considerable suppression of traditional Lunar New Year festivities in recent years. This impact has been felt across various communities, including those in Singapore and Malaysia, where customary celebrations, such as lion dances and the exchange of ang pows, have been muted. The unprecedented nature of major global celebrations being subdued for multiple years underscores the pervasive influence of the pandemic on cultural practices.
Travel Difficulties Hindered Family Reunions

A significant aspect of Chinese New Year is the reunion dinner, an occasion for families to gather. For Malaysians living in Singapore, the ability to cross the Johor Causeway to be with their families has been severely hampered. This difficulty in undertaking the journey home has extended to families and friends split between various locations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and China, highlighting a widespread challenge in maintaining familial connections during the festive season.
China's Strict Border Controls Contributed to Isolation

While the question specifically concerns the Causeway, the broader context of global travel restrictions, particularly those imposed by China, has contributed to a general atmosphere of separation. China implemented exceptionally strict controls on both entry and exit, resulting in a substantial reduction in international travel for Chinese citizens and a near cessation of foreign entry into the country over the preceding two years. This has created a significant absence of Chinese travellers regionally and has impacted the accessibility of loved ones within China.

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Why have Malaysians in Singapore struggled to reunite across the Causeway?

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