Two additional locations have been set up in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, to facilitate the installation of more vehicle entry permit (VEP) RFID tags on Singapore-registered vehicles, starting from 22 September 2024. According to a media release by the Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ) on 19 September, Singapore vehicle owners can visit the JPJ Johor Bahru branch at Kompleks JPJ, Taman Daya, or the Southern Region Road Transport Academy at Jalan Kebun Teh Lama, Larkin, for the installations. This move aims to improve the VEP RFID tag registration process.
## Background
The Malaysian authorities have been working to streamline the VEP RFID tag registration process to manage the influx of foreign vehicles, particularly from Singapore. The VEP system is designed to monitor and regulate the entry of foreign-registered vehicles into Malaysia, ensuring compliance with local regulations. The new locations in Johor Bahru are part of these efforts to make the process more efficient and accessible for vehicle owners.
## Locations and maximum capacities
According to JPJ, the JPJ Complex branch in Taman Daya can accommodate tag installations for up to 800 vehicles per day. The Southern Region Road Transport Academy will handle up to 400 vehicles per day. Currently, there is only one tag installation centre in Johor Bahru located at Danga Bay, with a maximum capacity of 300 vehicles per day. The addition of these two new locations will increase the overall maximum capacity to 1,500 vehicles per day.
The department has urged all owners of foreign vehicles to register, install, and activate their RFID VEP tags immediately to avoid any difficulties when entering and exiting Malaysia in the future.
## Enforcement soon
Driving a foreign-registered vehicle into Malaysia without the necessary permits is an offence. The JPJ has emphasised the importance of compliance to avoid penalties. Those who wish to register or require more information may visit the VEP website for further details.
## Current situation in Singapore
At present, there is only one VEP installation and information centre in Singapore, located in Woodlands. This centre can install between 100 to 150 tags and handle 100 enquiries per day. The VEP will be fully implemented on 1 October 2024, making it crucial for vehicle owners to complete their registrations promptly.
## Future implications
The introduction of additional VEP RFID tag installation centres in Johor Bahru is expected to significantly ease the registration process for Singapore vehicle owners. This development is part of a broader initiative to enhance cross-border travel efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance. As the VEP system becomes fully operational, it will likely lead to smoother and more organised vehicle entry into Malaysia, benefiting both authorities and travellers.
