Thousands of people cross the border from Singapore to Malaysia each day.
The good news is there are many transport options to help people make the journey.
The catch? Picking the right one can be tricky.
But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This article breaks down each transport option step by step. Read on to decide which option works best for you!
Table of Contents
1. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Private Car
2. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Bus
3. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Car (Self-Drive)
4. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Coach
5. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Train
6. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Ferry
7. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Plane
Overview Of The TWO Singapore-Malaysia Land Border Checkpoints
Did you know there are currently two checkpoints for Singaporeans to enter Malaysia by land?
Checkpoint 1: Woodlands Checkpoint
The original checkpoint is the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore, which connects to Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Checkpoint in JB (JB CIQ).
This route, also known as the First Link, is perfect for travellers heading to Johor Bahru City Square, Komtar JBCC, Larkin Terminal or JB Sentral Bus Terminal.
Checkpoint 2: Tuas Checkpoint
The newer checkpoint is the Tuas Second Link Checkpoint, which connects to Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (JB Second Link CIQ). This route, also known as the Second Link, is great for Singaporeans heading to Legoland or Larkin Terminal.
1. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Private Car
The most convenient way to travel from Singapore to Malaysia via land is by private car.
Choose PrivateCarSG for a fuss-free trip by following these steps:
Step 1: Receive Our Price Offer By Submitting Your Trip Details Via WhatsApp
For a price quote, submit your trip details to our WhatsApp, including your Name, Country, Pick-Up Date and Time and Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location.
Step 2: Get Confirmation Via WhatsApp
If the price offer suits you, kindly inform us that you’d like to proceed with the booking. You will then receive a booking confirmation via WhatsApp.
Step 3: Driver Will Come To Your Preferred Location In Singapore
On your travel date, the driver will pick you up at your preferred location.
Step 4: Drive You Through Singapore-Malaysia Border For Immigration Clearance
Your driver will drive you through the Singapore-Malaysia Checkpoints. Best part? You don’t have to leave the car for immigration clearance!
Step 5: Take You Directly To Your Destination In Malaysia
After clearing immigration, your driver will whisk you to your preferred destination in Malaysia. Simple!
Notes:
- You’ll be provided with your driver’s details a day before your trip.
- You may pay via online banking or in cash directly to your driver.
2. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Bus
There are many buses from Singapore to Malaysia, with routes passing through either Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoint.
Buses Via Woodlands Checkpoint
Step 1: Board Any Bus Heading Towards Woodlands Checkpoint
Choose from several bus operators servicing the Woodlands Checkpoint route, including Causeway Link, SBS Transit, Transtar Travel and SMRT.
| Departing From: | Bus |
| Kranji MRT | SBS Bus 170X |
| CW1 | |
| Queen St. Terminal | CW2 |
| Newton | CW5 |
| Changi | Transtar Bus (TS1) from T1 |
| Resort World Sentosa | Transtar Bus (TS8) from Basement Coach Bay |
| Yishun Bus Interchange | AC7 (Berth 8) |
| Woodlands Bus Interchange | SMRT Bus 950 |
For detailed pricing and schedules of individual buses, head to these respective websites – Causeway Link, SBS Transit, Transtar Travel, SMRT.
Step 2: Alight The Bus For Immigration Clearance To Exit Singapore
You must disembark from the bus at Woodlands Checkpoint with your luggage to clear Singapore immigration.
You will be asked to show your passport and immigration documents, and your luggage will be inspected.
Step 3: Board Any Bus from Woodlands Checkpoint To Go To JB Checkpoint
After clearing immigration, take any bus heading towards JB Checkpoint (JB CIQ). The buses are located just below the immigration area.
You may board the same bus without paying extra fares if you’ve already paid the full fare for the Transtar(TS) or Causeway (CW) buses.
Just show your physical/digital ticket to the bus driver upon boarding.
Step 4: Alight The Bus For Immigration Clearance To Enter Malaysia
Upon arriving at JB CIQ, once again alight the bus and proceed to clear Malaysia immigration.
Step 5: Take The Exit Pathway Leading You To JB Sentral
After clearing immigration, take the exit pathway, which will lead you to JB Sentral. From JB Sentral you can take other buses to different destinations in Malaysia.
The bus bay area for JB buses is located at the JB Sentral bus terminal just below the link bridge between the CIQ Complex and the JB City Centre Shopping Mall Complex.
Buses Via Tuas Checkpoint
Step 1: Board Any Bus Heading Towards Tuas Checkpoint
Hop on one of the several buses in Singapore heading towards Tuas Checkpoint.
| Departing From: | Bus |
| Jurong East | CW3 |
| CW4 | |
| CW4S | |
| Boon Lay MRT | CW6 |
| Tuas Link | CW7 |
| Buona Vista | TS6 |
Check the bus schedule and fares at the Causeway Link or Transtar websites.
Step 2: Alight The Bus For Immigration Clearance To Exit Singapore
At Tuas Checkpoint, you must alight from the bus to clear Singapore immigration.
Step 3: Board Any Bus from Tuas Checkpoint To Go To JB Second Link CIQ
Once you’ve cleared immigration, you can use your bus ticket to board any other bus offered by your initial bus company.
It does not have to be the exact same vehicle. Simply board the next available bus and it will depart once it’s full.
Step 4: Alight The Bus For Immigration Clearance To Enter Malaysia
Disembark from the bus at JB Second Link CIQ and proceed for immigration clearance to enter Malaysia.
Step 5: Take The Exit Pathway To The Bus Bay Area at JB Second Link CIQ
Following immigration clearance, you’ll exit into the bus bay area at CIQ Second Link, where you can catch any JB buses.
Notes:
- When disembarking from the bus at both the Singapore and Malaysia checkpoints, you must carry your own luggage to get to customs.
- Singaporean passport holders can use the electronic gate facilities at JB CIQ (from Woodlands) and JB Second Link CIQ (from Tuas).
- To use the e-gate facilities, Singaporeans must apply for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. For more information on using the e-gate facility, do visit this website.
Also Read: 11 Best Jungle/Forest Resort in Malaysia
3. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Car (Self-Drive)
If you’re the kind of person who likes to DIY, you can also drive yourself to Malaysia!
Step 1: Prepare Documents Before Driving Into Malaysia From Singapore
We cannot stress this enough – make sure to check that you’ve got all the documents you need before you start your drive.
Mandatory items includes:
- Passport
- Driving Licence
- Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) – register for a VEP at the official VEP website.
- Touch N’ Go Card
- Stored-value card (NETS CashCard/Motoring Card or CEPAS Card)
- Valid printed copy of your vehicle’s certificate of insurance
- Valid printed copy of your vehicle’s road tax validity
Step 2: Drive Your Car To Tuas Or Woodlands Checkpoint For Immigration Clearance
Kick-off your road trip by driving to Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoint to clear Singapore immigration.
Remember to pay your toll charges with your stored-value card before driving away from the immigration booth to avoid fines of up to $1,000.
Step 3: Drive Your Car To JB CIQ or JB Second Link CIQ For Custom Check
After passing through Singapore immigration, get on the Causeway and head to JB CIQ or JB Second Link CIQ.
For a smooth customs journey, wind down your windows and switch on your car interior lights so the officer can see the total number of people in your car.
Step 4: Pay Road Charge & Toll Fee Using Touch N’ Go Card
Once your passport has been stamped, you can pay the road charge and toll fee using ONLY your Touch N’ Go card.
Step 5: Proceed To The GREEN Lane If Nothing To Declare
If you have nothing to declare, drive through to the green lane and you’re through to Malaysia!
Best Timing To Cross The Border To Malaysia From Singapore By Car
| Days | Timing |
| Weekdays | 5:00am, 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 10:00pm |
| Saturday | 5:00am, 11:00pm – 12:00am |
| Sunday | 5:00am, 4:00pm – 12:00am |
For real-time traffic updates, visit Trafficiti’s website to avoid getting stuck in a jam.
Notes:
- Remember to top up your stored-value card in Singapore in advance, as there are no top-up machines at the checkpoints.
- Your fuel tank must be 3/4 full when entering Malaysia. Singaporean cars may only pump RON 97 petrol in Malaysia.
- VEPs are valid for five years.
4. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Coach
If you’re after an enhanced bus experience, consider taking a coach from Singapore to Malaysia!
Step 1: Purchase Your Coach Ticket Online
Popular coach operators travelling the Singapore – Malaysia route include Golden Coach Express, Luxury Coach and KKKL.
You can purchase your tickets online at Easybook or WTS Travel.
Step 2: Board The Coach At Departure Point
Arrive early at your departure point and show your ticket to the driver to board the bus.
Step 3: Immigration Clearance At Singapore Border Checkpoint
Disembark at Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoint to clear Singapore immigration.
If you’re travelling solo, jot down your bus plate number and request a fellow traveller to inform the driver in case of immigration delays.
Step 4: Board The Same Coach To Malaysia Border Checkpoint
Hop back onto the same coach and proceed to Malaysia’s checkpoint.
Step 5: Clearance at Malaysia Border Checkpoint
At the Malaysia border checkpoint, the immigration officer will stamp your passport.
Afterward, you’ll be directed to customs control, where your luggage will undergo scanning.
Step 6: Board The Same Coach Again To Your Destination In Malaysia
After clearing immigration, board the same coach, and you’re on your way to your chosen Malaysia destination!
Note:
- E-gate facilities are available for coach passengers.
- For travel to Legoland Malaysia or JPO, the coach will use the Tuas – JB Second Link CIQ.
- For KL, Mersing, Malacca, and other destinations in Malaysia, the coach will use the Woodlands – JB CIQ.
Also Read: 13 Best Theme Parks in Malaysia
5. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Train
Did you know you can cross the border in JUST 5 minutes by taking the KTM Shuttle Tebrau? Find out how!
Step 1: Book KTM Train To JB Tickets Online
To purchase your KTM train ticket to JB, visit the official KTM Shuttle Tebrau website. Once there, create an account or log in to make a purchase.
Tickets from Woodlands to JB cost SGD 5, while tickets from JB to Woodlands cost RM 5.
Step 2: Make Your Way To Woodlands Train Checkpoint
Woodlands Train Checkpoint can be accessed via car, bus or MRT.
If you’re opting for the bus, you have the following choices:
| Departing From: | Bus |
| Woodlands Bus Interchange | 856, 903, 911, 911T, 912, 912B |
| Kranji MRT | 178 |
| Marsiling MRT | 856 |
Step 3: Head to Woodlands Train Checkpoint Level 2
Upon reaching Woodlands Train Checkpoint, go to Level 2 and join the boarding queue.
Have your passport ready, as it serves as your boarding pass.
Step 4: Go Through Both Immigrations At Woodlands Train Checkpoint
After entering the departure gate, you must clear both Singapore and Malaysia immigration before boarding the train.
Step 5: Take the 5 Minutes Train Ride To JB from Singapore
You may now board the train for your 5-minute ride to Malaysia!
Notes:
- Gates open 40 minutes before departure and closes 20 minutes before departure.
- Train tickets are available to purchase six months in advance.
- Book your tickets in advance if you’re travelling during the weekend, public holidays or school holidays.
- Children under 4 years travel for free.
- E-gate facilities are not available for train passengers.
6. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Ferry
For travellers heading to Desaru, a ferry ride offers a refreshing alternative.
Step 1: Purchase Ferry Ticket To Desaru From Singapore Online
To purchase your tickets, visit the ferry operator’s official website.
Ferry tickets are priced depending on the route.
| Tanah Merah – Desaru Coast | Tanah Merah – Tanjung Pengelih | |
| Return Ticket | SGD 108 | SGD 73 |
| One-Way Ticket | SGD 70 | SGD 43 |
Here’s the ferry schedule for your quick reference.
| Operation Days | Tanah Merah – Desaru Coast | Desaru Coast – Tanah Merah |
| Thursday – Monday | 08:30 am | 5:30 pm |
| Tanah Merah – Tanjung Pengelih | Tanjung Pengelih – Tanah Merah | |
| Friday – Sunday | 10:40 am | 4:00 pm |
Step 2: Head To Singapore Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
Head to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal via car, MRT or bus.
If taking the MRT, get on the EWL and alight at Bedok or Tanah Merah. Then, take SBS 35 towards Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
Step 3: Clear Singapore Immigration & Customs At Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
Otherwise, you may be denied boarding, and refunds will not be given.
Step 4: Board Ferry From Singapore To Desaru
Route 1: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal
This route will take 90 minutes.
Route 2: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal To Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal
This route will take 35 minutes.
Step 5: Clear Malaysia Immigration & Custom Checks
Disembark from the ferry and proceed to clear Malaysia immigration.
Step 6: Hop On A Shuttle Bus From Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast
Route 1: Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast
Catch the free hourly shuttle for a 10-minute trip to Desaru Coast.
Route 2: Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast
No free shuttle is available. The most economical route to Desaru Coast is via land transport, costing SGD 40.
Notes:
- Plan your time wisely, as there’s only one return ferry on operation days.
- Sailing time may vary depending on the weather.
Also Read: Ferry From Singapore To Malaysia: All You Need
7. How To Cross The Border From Singapore To Malaysia By Plane
If you enjoy flying, consider taking a flight from Singapore to Malaysia. Flights typically clock in at just one hour!
Step 1: Purchase Airline Ticket
Purchase a ticket online directly from carriers such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Scoot and Singapore Airlines.
Step 2: Head To Changi Airport
To get to Changi Airport by bus:
| Terminal | Bus Number |
| Terminal 1, 2, 3 | 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110 and 858 |
| Terminal 4 | 24, 34, 36 and 110 |
To get to Changi Airport by MRT:
- East West Line to Tanah Merah Station then transfer to Changi Airport Station.
- Downtown Line to Expo Station, then transfer to Changi Airport Station.
Step 3: Clear Singapore Immigration
Arrive at least 3 hours before your flight to clear immigration.
Step 4: Board Your Flight
Go to your boarding gate and present your boarding pass and have a safe flight!
Step 5: Clear Malaysia Immigration And Customs
Singaporeans may use the e-gate facilities at KLIA 1 to clear immigration. However, e-gate facilities are not available at KLIA 2.
Conclusion
Though we have an array of border-crossing options, nothing beats a private car in terms of convenience, comfort and flexibility.
Reach out today to our private car service PrivateCarSG to transport you safely and smoothly from Singapore to Malaysia!
