Cross-border trips to Johor push Singapore checkpoint traffic to new high
South China Morning Post
by Jean IauFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Singapore’s border checkpoints saw record-breaking traffic last year, with nearly 245 million travelers passing through—marking a 6.3% increase compared to 2024. The majority of these crossings, about three-quarters, occurred at land checkpoints connecting Singapore to Johor, reflecting the steady flow of commuters and leisure travelers between the two regions. This surge in traffic highlights the growing popularity of cross-border trips for affordable shopping, recreation, and daily commuting. For instance, many residents, like consultant Toh Jia Jie, make regular Sunday excursions to Johor for activities such as pickleball and massages before returning late Monday mornings.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) reported a significant rise in vehicle crossings, with nearly 84.8 million vehicles cleared last year—a 9.5% increase from 2024. The Woodlands Checkpoint, one of the busiest land borders, often sees long queues of cars as travelers take advantage of Johor’s lower prices and diverse attractions. This trend underscores the deep economic and cultural ties between Singapore and Johor, where daily commuting and leisure activities have become integral parts of life for many residents.
The spike in cross-border traffic not only reflects the strong demand for affordable travel options but also highlights Singapore’s strategic position as a hub for regional mobility. As one of Asia’s most interconnected cities, Singapore’s ability to manage such high volumes of travelers efficiently underscores its role as a global transportation and economic center. This growing trend is expected to further strengthen the economic collaboration between Singapore and Johor, offering opportunities for both regions to thrive in an increasingly integrated world.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026