JOHOR BAHRU: Singapore drivers, take a breath!

Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke recently confirmed that those without Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) tags will not face immediate fines, as the full enforcement of the VEP scheme for foreign vehicles has not yet kicked in. Speaking at a Kuala Lumpur event, Loke addressed concerns regarding potential penalties for Singapore motorists with unpaid traffic fines starting January 1, 2025.

“We have not fully announced the implementation of VEP enforcement yet. Drivers have nothing to worry about for now," he stated, confirming that drivers will continue to receive warning notices rather than fines.

Temporary Leniency and Registration Encouragement

While urging drivers to register for the VEP, Loke emphasized that this leniency is temporary. The enforcement framework is still in its early phases, with Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ) highlighting the significance of registering for VEP as a means to manage traffic and outstanding fines effectively.

In August, JPJ had raised alarms warning Singapore drivers of potential enforcement actions for any unpaid fines. If these fines remain unresolved, drivers could face denied entry into Malaysia, and their vehicles could potentially be impounded. An astonishing statistic revealed that Singapore motorists amassed over 35,000 unpaid traffic summonses, totaling approximately RM3.5 million (US$783,000) since 1990. This highlights the severity of the issue at hand.

VEP System Implementation

The first phase of the VEP system started on October 1, which mandates all foreign-registered vehicles entering by land from Singapore to utilize VEPs. This system allows Malaysian authorities to track foreign vehicles and quickly indicate if the driver has any outstanding fines.

As the government takes a gradual approach towards full enforcement, Loke reassured that a proper notification will be provided before any stricter enforcement measures materialize. He suggested that the government would likely implement fines against Singapore motorists only after a majority have completed their VEP registration, making the process fair.

Potential Benefits of VEP

Automotive expert Muhd Raden Anwar noted that tracking foreign vehicles via the VEP provides instructional data that can aid urban planning - a crucial insight for the future of Malaysia's road infrastructure. By issuing 112,658 RFID tags to drivers, with 75,412 activated as of September 30, Malaysia aims to combat not just unpaid fines but also vehicle theft and syndicates that profit from cloned cars.

Conclusion

The VEP initiative, first announced in 2017, is envisioned as a practical solution for monitoring foreign vehicles entering Malaysia and ensuring that traffic fines are settled before motorists leave the country. However, initial plans for full enforcement in 2019 faced multiple delays, prompting the ongoing phased approach to implementation.

In conclusion, while the VEP system is being deployed, Singapore drivers can navigate the borders cautiously, as immediate punitive actions are not on the horizon. But with ongoing changes, the window for seamless travel may not last forever – so make sure to stay informed and proactive about your vehicle’s registration!