Johor Bahru: Malaysian authorities have increased checks at land borders with Singapore to stop subsidised sugar and other essential goods from being taken out of the country, The Straits Times reported.
A Home Ministry official said officers from the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency have recently stepped up inspections to prevent items such as subsidised sugar, cooking oil, flour and rice from being purchased in bulk and transported across the border.
The move follows concerns that tensions in the Middle East could push more Singapore residents to travel to Johor to stock up on cheaper essentials, especially sugar.
Authorities are also monitoring whether more vehicles from Singapore are entering Johor during late-night hours to avoid checks, particularly to buy fuel.
Officials said they are keeping a close watch on motorists who may attempt to carry petrol in containers, which is not allowed.
The agency said a special inspection drive was carried out on March 26 at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs Immigration and Quarantine Complex, where officers conducted checks in the inspection area.
The intensified action is part of a broader effort launched in 2025 to strengthen monitoring and enforce declaration rules at key border points, including the Sultan Abu Bakar crossing at the Second Link.