Malaysian workers forced to obtain Singapore driving permits for employment will qualify for domestic fuel subsidies despite lacking local licenses. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the cabinet approved benefits for citizens who commute from Johor and must convert credentials under Singaporean regulations prohibiting dual permits. The Road Transport Department will build registration portals within two weeks for affected bus operators, truckers and port drivers who surrendered Malaysian documentation.
Singapore refuses to share personal information with Malaysian authorities because of privacy protections that prevent automatic verification systems. Officials estimate between 200,000 and 250,000 people cross the border daily for work. The subsidy program excludes foreign-registered vehicles even when driven by Malaysian citizens, requiring premium gasoline purchases. Loke confirmed vehicles from Singapore or Thailand cannot access discounted RON95 fuel regardless of operator nationality under current regulations.
Singapore refuses to share personal information with Malaysian authorities because of privacy protections that prevent automatic verification systems. Officials estimate between 200,000 and 250,000 people cross the border daily for work. The subsidy program excludes foreign-registered vehicles even when driven by Malaysian citizens, requiring premium gasoline purchases. Loke confirmed vehicles from Singapore or Thailand cannot access discounted RON95 fuel regardless of operator nationality under current regulations.
