More than two million travellers crossed the Woodlands and Tuas land checkpoints during the Labour Day long weekend from April 30 to May 3, with a peak of nearly 580,000 travellers on April 30. During peak hours, car travellers faced waits of up to three hours for immigration clearance due to traffic tailbacks from Malaysia [1, 2, 3].

Traffic congestion is again expected from May 26 to June 28, covering Hari Raya Haji on May 27, Vesak Day on May 31, and the June school holidays from May 30 through June 28 [2, 3]. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has advised travellers to plan trips early, travel during off-peak hours such as early mornings or late evenings, and check traffic conditions before arriving at the checkpoints [1, 2].

Since late February, ICA has increased security checks across all land checkpoints in response to heightened global security concerns tied to the conflict in the Middle East [1, 2, 3]. These measures contribute to longer clearance times during busy periods.

Technological improvements like QR code scanning and facial recognition clearance for motorcyclists have boosted screening throughput. These initiatives have increased clearance capacity by over 35% during peak departure periods compared to pre-COVID levels in 2019, allowing about 7,600 more travellers per hour to clear immigration [2].

For bus travellers, special assistance lanes equipped with QR code scanning are available for passengers in wheelchairs and families of up to four members including children under six years old, facilitating faster clearance [2]. Travellers are reminded to ensure their passports have at least six months of validity remaining [2].

During the recent Labour Day weekend, ICA caught 19 motorists for traffic offences and dangerous driving behaviours. These offenders faced penalties such as re-queuing, referrals to Traffic Police, prosecutions, and bans from entering Singapore [1].

Authorities urge travellers to maintain lane discipline and obey traffic laws to avoid delays and ensure smoother clearance at checkpoints [1, 2].

Traffic congestion is expected to be heaviest on the key dates of May 27 and 31 during public holidays, as well as throughout the June school vacation period. Motorists and commuters should prepare for extended delays and consider alternative travel times when possible.