LifeStyle Updates : Travel agencies in Johor hit hard after Singapore bars premium tour vehicles, call for cross-border fix

Source : 

https://theindependent.sg/travel-agencies-in-johor-hit-hard-after-singapore-bars-premium-tour-vehicles-call-for-cross-border-fix/

ChatGPT : 

Since 2023, Johor’s travel agencies have been hit hard after Singapore stopped approving Vehicle Entry Permits (VEP) for premium MPVs like the Toyota Alphard, Vellfire, Hyundai Staria, and Starex. Over 400 agencies report their business has halved, with rows of once-busy vehicles now idle. These MPVs were a preferred choice for Singaporean tourists, especially elderly, disabled passengers, and corporate clients who needed direct and comfortable cross-border transport.

Operators argue the clampdown is unfair, as their vehicles meet strict safety standards, undergo biannual inspections, carry passenger insurance, and are driven by PSV-licensed drivers. Yet, despite being regulated by Malaysia’s Transport and Tourism Ministries, they are barred. This has created a gap now exploited by unlicensed private operators, raising safety and insurance concerns.

The impact is severe: 119 premium vehicles have already been seized by Singapore’s LTA, leaving owners saddled with unpaid loans. Beyond hurting livelihoods, the ban affects Singaporeans too, who now face fewer safe, direct travel options into Johor. Discussions on cross-border e-hailing may offer a way forward, but for now, both travellers and agencies remain in limbo.

Opinion : 

I'm one of those using the illegal services from Johor car companies 😅

With young children, it's a more convenient solution than the rest.

Hope there can be something arranged for families soon.