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SINGAPORE: Freight drivers entering Singapore from Malaysia through the Tuas and Woodlands checkpoints will be required to undergo COVID-19 testing starting Friday (January 22).
Starting at 9 a.m. Friday, rapid COVID-19 antigen tests will be progressively rolled out at the two checkpoints for freight drivers and accompanying personnel entering Singapore, the Ministry of Commerce and Commerce said on Thursday. Industry (MTI).
They will be allowed to enter Singapore if their results are negative.
“As freight drivers and accompanying personnel could interact with the local community in Singapore, the introduction of a (rapid antigen test) on arrival will allow us to identify potential COVID-19 cases and further mitigate the risk. “said MTI.
This will add to the safeguards ensuring public health in Singapore, as well as for the freight driver community and accompanying personnel, the ministry said.
“We recognize the importance of ensuring the smooth transit of goods between Singapore and Malaysia and we value the important role of freight drivers and accompanying personnel,” MTI said.
“We will ensure smooth operations at checkpoints to minimize disruptions to deliveries and supply chains.”
READ: ‘No disruption’ to supply chains after Malaysia tightens COVID-19 measures – Chan Chun Sing
Companies awaiting deliveries are encouraged to maintain close communication with their logistics providers and address possible delays, the ministry added.
Businesses, freight drivers, and accompanying personnel must also continue to adhere to safe management measures, including contactless delivery, wearing masks, and safe distancing.
READ: Rapid antigen tests put to the test for faster detection of COVID-19 among migrant workers
Rapid antigen tests can give results in half an hour, according to the Health Ministry.
They have a lower accuracy rate than polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which take at least a day to return results.
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