THE Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) scheme between Malaysia and Singapore is pivotal to drive industrial growth and boost investment not only between both countries but more so for Johor in view of the state’s close proximity to the republic.
Understandably, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad has conveyed the state government’s stand on Singapore’s decision to Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin with the matter expected to be discussed at the cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
This follows Singapore’s decision to temporarily suspend the reciprocal “travel bubble” arrangement with Malaysia as well as South Korea and Germany for three months starting Monday (Feb 1) following the resurgence of COVID-19 cases worldwide.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also contacted the state government on Johor’s stand on the RGL scheme. The state government hopes the RGL scheme will continue,” Hasni was quoted as saying by Bernama during a virtual media conference.
“As there is a lot of investments from Singapore in Johor, we believe this arrangement can help industries and investments from neighbouring countries that have interests in Johor.
“Therefore, we hope the Federal Government will also allow eligible industry players to continue to use RGL.”
On Saturday, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will review the arrangement after three months.
Apart from Malaysia, South Korea and Germany, the republic also implemented RGL with Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, and six provinces in China.
Singapore first established the RGL scheme with Malaysia on Aug 17 last year to facilitate cross-border travel for important business and official purposes between the two countries. – Feb 1, 2021
