Dr Wee: VTL quota increase depends on Malaysia-Singapore agreement

AYER HITAM: The decision to increase the quota for the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) between Singapore and Malaysia requires the approval from both countries, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

The Transport Minister said that the VTL between Malaysia and Singapore is a bilateral arrangement, where any decision would require the agreement from both countries.

"The decision to reduce the quota for the land and air VTL was not a new decision. Singapore had also previously suggested it.

"As long as there is no agreement from both countries (to increase the quota), the number will remain. We will adhere to the decision, as it is one that was made following a process monitored by the health authorities of both countries.

"If Singapore agrees to increase (the daily VTL quota), for sure we will not let go of the opportunity," he said after attending a Road Safety campaign at Dewan Muafakat Ayer Hitam on Saturday (Jan 22) here.

Dr Wee said this in response to questions on whether the quota of the VTL for both air and land crossing between Malaysia and Singapore would be increased.

"I also take note of the statements made by certain assemblymen to increase the quota. As representatives, they are free to make the plea to Singapore.

"However, as a country that has a good relation with Singapore, we will follow the decision that has been made by both parties," he said.

He noted that only the VTL-Air falls under the jurisdiction of the Transport Ministry, while the VTL-Land is under the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti), with both being monitored by the health authorities of both Malaysia and Singapore.