The Causeway madness between Malaysia and Singapore continues.
Early this week, Singapore’s transport ministry has declared that it would continue to match any increase in toll rates imposed in Malaysia.
This came in response to Malaysia’s plan to impose a charge of RM20 on each foreign vehicle entering Johor from Singapore.
Quoting Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan, a Channel News Asia (CNA) report said that the long-standing policy is to ensure that Malaysia takes into consideration Singapore’s response whenever it plans to raise toll.
Khaw explained that Singapore has consistently advocated open and liberal transport links and connectivity with Malaysia.
For example, the toll at the Causeway and Second Link were introduced in 1998 only in response to Malaysia’s decision to levy toll at both crossings, he said.
“The same principle will apply in our response to Malaysia’s impending road charge. If it discriminates against Singapore-registered vehicles, then we will match it in some form,” he added.
“We will confirm whether and how we will respond, after Malaysia has implemented their road charge and the details become available,” said Khaw.
Malaysia is currently conducting a trial run of the Vehicle Entry Permit System (VEP) from June 1 until July 16. The RM20 charge will apply from July 16.
