The best thing you can do is not to neglect the only thing that will take you there and back.
Driving into Malaysia is now a reality after waiting for what seems like an eternity and a half for the border to open. It’s time, then, to give your car a good stretch by crossing the Causeway to Malaysia and enjoy driving on its many open roads. Malaysia’s many long and straight highways always invite you to push the accelerator closer to the floor. And once you’re done with the highways, Malaysia also offers twisting mountain and back roads that never fail to inspire a spirited drive. If you’ve never crossed the border on four wheels before, trust us when we say that it is a more fulfilling experience than arriving on an aeroplane. And because we drive on the same side of the road as Malaysia, it will be the easiest road trip you’ll ever make. Before you point the GPS north, there are a few things you should know that will make your road trip stress- and fuss-free. We start with the very thing you’ll be using to cross the border and drive on Malaysia’s many scenic routes — your car.
Simple things you can do to check your vehicle’s health
The first thing that any motorist should do before going on a road trip is to get the vehicle checked. There is nothing more stressful than your car breaking down in a foreign country. Not only you don’t have access to your favoured mechanic, but finding one you can trust is seemingly an impossible challenge. One of the few basic things you should look at is your tyres. Fill them up to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which will reduce uneven wear and even save you fuel. Take time to check if your tyre’s sidewall is cracked, or if a nail has somehow embedded deep in your thread. Consider swapping for a new set of tyres if they are damaged or between seven to 10 years old because a set of good tyres will make driving safer. Next, pop open the hood to ensure the coolant, transmission and brake fluids are at the level recommended by the manufacturer; top them up if low. Then, pull up the dipstick to check the level and condition of your engine oil. You would want to see a clear, particle-less oil on the dipstick. And make sure the level is nowhere near the tip of the stick because that indicates insufficient engine oil.
Service your car for complete peace of mind
Better yet, send your car in for servicing especially when you’re close to the service interval. Pick a garage you trust, like S M Performance, that can weed out the problem long before it happens. As part of the package, S M Performance will change your engine oil and oil filter which prevents a drop in engine performance. The change also ensures all moving parts are properly lubricated for smooth running. S M Performance will also conduct a multi-point check on your car. The condition of the timing and fan belts, radiator, battery and braking system, just to name a few, are inspected for wear and tear. If there is anything that needs to be bled, replaced and patched up, this is the best time and place to do it. Once completed, you can drive with peace of mind knowing your car is fit for the journey ahead.
Permits and passes
With your car in excellent running condition and Vehicle Entry Permit applied, check if your Touch n’ Go card — the EZLink equivalent in Malaysia — has enough credits inside. You’ll use the card to pay highway tolls, public transport and parking fees in malls. Speaking of malls, you’d also need to download the MySejahtera app, which displays your current COVID-19 vaccination and risk status. Although you don’t have to scan the QR code at all entry points, certain malls require you to show your COVID-19 status before allowing entry.
RON95 petrol is cheap but not for Singaporeans
Fuel is a sticky issue between our country and Malaysia. One of the requirements before driving into Malaysia is to have your fuel tank at least three-quarters full. Our neighbour has heavily subsidised the RON 95 grade fuel, making it extremely affordable for people on both sides of the Causeway. Since the subsidy is for the benefit of Malaysians, the Malaysian government has imposed a ban on all Singaporeans from fuelling up with RON 95. Malaysia’s law enforcement will fine anyone caught with a yellow nozzle in the fuel pipe. The other grade, RON 97, has no restrictions but can only be poured directly into your car’s fuel tank.
Be respectful to other motorists on the road
Driving in Malaysia is a simple affair as the traffic laws of both countries are similar. Standard rules, which are observed internationally, include restricted use of mobile phones while driving, not beating the red light and obeying the speed limit. It is also good driving etiquette to use your indicators when turning and switching lanes, don’t tailgate and don’t drive like a maniac. On the flip side, don’t drive at the speed limit on the right-most lane — it is used for overtaking. Driving into Malaysia isn’t as difficult as one might think. With proper permits applied, the only other thing that will make your drive enjoyable is your car. So, get your vehicle checked and serviced before making the journey and you’ll have a trusted partner that will take you far.