Latest news with #MalaysianCustoms
The Star
06-05-2025
- The Star
‘Border to beach' getaway
DREAMING of a border-crossing cycling adventure? Songkhla, a charming town in Southern Thailand, is waiting for you just 95km north of Malaysia's Bukit Kayu Hitam border. Whether you bring your bicycle or rent one locally, Songkhla offers a warm, vibrant setting ideal for two-wheeled explorers. If you choose to bring your own bike, a folding bicycle is highly recommended – easy to transport and perfect for the mostly flat terrain surrounding the town. Getting there is simple: buses from Kuala Lumpur's Terminal Bersepadu Selatan depart daily around midnight, arriving at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration Complex by early morning. Don't forget to declare your bicycle at Malaysian Customs before crossing the border. An old pier turned into a tourist walkway in Songkhla. The procedure is straightforward – complete a temporary export form, keep the permit with you and breeze through your journey worry-free. For those who prefer driving, the process is just as easy, provided you have the necessary documents to bring your vehicle into Thailand. Once you've arrived in Hat Yai, it's time to saddle up and head toward Songkhla. You'll have two beautiful routes to choose from. Route 414 offers a faster, modern speedway ride – ideal if you want a smooth, efficient journey. Street murals like this one featuring Thailand's King Rama 9 are typical decorations around the heritage area. For a more leisurely and scenic experience, opt for Route 407, the classic older road gently winds through the Southern Thai countryside. Covering about 28km, this route offers a few pleasant undulations and countless opportunities to stop for a cup of coffee or to hydrate under shady trees. Cycling to Songkhla will typically take around two and a half hours, depending on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the scenery. If long-distance cycling isn't your style, don't worry. Standing at an overlook before Lake Songkhla. Simply drive into Songkhla, park your vehicle at City Park near Chalatat Beach and set up your bike for a day of relaxed riding along the seaside. Once in town, start your adventure by heading to Samila Beach, home to the town's most famous landmark – the Golden Mermaid statue. Gleaming in the tropical sunlight, she is a symbol of Songkhla's seaside allure and a must-visit photo spot. For early risers, there's no better place to catch the sunrise than the Krom Luang Chumphon Monument, located 4.2km from City Park. Here, the sky puts on a breathtaking show each morning, with the Gulf of Thailand shimmering under the first light of day. From the beach, it's a short 4.3km ride into Songkhla Old Town, a district steeped in history and charm. This area, lovingly preserved by the local community, is being championed for Unesco World Heritage Site recognition – and it's not hard to see why. Wander through narrow streets lined with pre-war buildings bearing Chinese-influenced architecture. Narrow lanes crisscrossing Songkhla's old town. Many of these historic structures have been thoughtfully repurposed into boutique hotels, art cafes and quirky restaurants. It's a feast for the senses – and a dream for photographers. Be sure to bring your camera because every corner and façade offers a moment worth capturing. Cycling remains the best way to explore this enchanting part of town. The tight streets are perfect for two wheels, and the slow pace allows you to savour every detail – the weathered wooden shutters, the vivid street art and the aroma of freshly brewed Thai coffee wafting through the air. For a deeper understanding of Songkhla's rich maritime past, visit the Songkhla National Museum on Chana Road. Housed in a grand colonial-era building, the museum's exhibits trace the town's evolution from a vital trading port to the cultural gem it is today. The paved streets in Songkhla's old town are narrow and ideal for two-wheelers. Why Songkhla? The beauty of Songkhla lies in its perfect balance: small enough to explore in half a day, yet rich enough in sights, tastes and culture to linger in your memory for much longer. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist seeking new adventures or simply a traveller longing for a fresh slice of Thailand's coastal charm, Songkhla offers a breezy, bike-friendly escape that's closer than you think. So pack your bags, check your tyres and let Songkhla's golden beaches, historic streets and warm hospitality be the backdrop to your next unforgettable ride.
Independent Singapore
01-05-2025
- Independent Singapore
Singaporean fined RM817 for undeclared Dyson vacuum at Malaysian Customs
MALAYSIA: What began as a routine drive from Singapore to Malaysia turned into an expensive lesson for a Singaporean traveller, who was fined RM817.28 (S$248) by Malaysian Customs for failing to declare a newly purchased Dyson cordless vacuum cleaner. According to The Rakyat Post , the man was travelling in a group and had only the vacuum cleaner tucked inside his backpack, with no additional luggage or parcels. Assuming the item wouldn't attract scrutiny, he chose to use the Green Channel, which is reserved for passengers who declare no taxable or restricted goods. When mistaken assumptions backfire That assumption quickly unravelled when Malaysian customs officers stopped the group for inspection. The officer informed them that the vacuum was taxable, explaining that entering through the Green Channel means that they are not carrying with them any taxable goods. The failure to declare the vacuum was thus viewed as a concealment attempt. Under Malaysian customs law, such cases attract not just standard duties but an additional penalty of 20%, as reported by The Rakyat Post . This brought the amount that they had to pay to RM817.28. The group asked whether the amount might be negotiable, but were informed that the penalty was calculated based on the guidelines. Firm enforcement and a warning When the group continued to express concern, a female officer was brought in. She took a firmer approach, informing them that the amount imposed was already the minimum allowable penalty. She issued a stern reminder that refusal to pay could result in a fine of up to RM5,000 and a formal investigation for attempted concealment of goods. 'Rules are rules,' she stated, making clear there would be no flexibility. Realising the risks, the Singaporean quietly asked where to make the payment. He later admitted to feeling frustrated but acknowledged that the mistake was his own for not declaring the vacuum cleaner in the first place. As a result, he and his group called the experience a 'learning opportunity' and urged others to familiarise themselves with customs requirements when crossing borders. Understanding Customs rules The case highlights a common misunderstanding among casual travellers: that smaller or personal purchases don't need to be declared. In reality, Malaysian Customs distinguishes clearly between the Green and Red Channels. Entering via the Green Channel without declaring taxable goods constitutes an official declaration of carrying nothing subject to duty. Any items found can therefore be considered as concealed, leading to steep fines or even legal action. Malaysian authorities calculate tax and penalties based on the product's original value, not the discounted price, which is why luxury or high-end items such as electronics, designer handbags, or in this case, a vacuum cleaner, are often subject to closer inspection. This is increasingly relevant as more Singaporeans shop in Malaysia, drawn by a favourable exchange rate and lower retail prices. Public reaction and online analysis The story drew wide attention online, with many netizens offering commentary ranging from amused to supportive. One of the most liked comments on social media echoed the customs officer's stance: 'Rules are rules. I see nothing wrong here.' The remark reflected a broader sentiment that the fine, though hefty, was fair and consistent with the law. Others expressed shock at the high penalty. 'Oh my god!' wrote one user, while another pointed out that border enforcement works both ways: 'Some things can't also be brought to Singapore,' referring to restrictions on foreign goods entering the city-state. The virality of the story, paired with a sense of relatability, also speaks to how economic habits are evolving. As more people seek to stretch their dollar by shopping across the border, incidents like this are likely to become more common, unless efforts are made to raise consumer awareness and provide clearer guidance from authorities. A cautionary tale for cross-border travellers This incident serves as a reminder that even routine trips can go awry if rules are overlooked. In today's climate of increased cross-border movement and regional spending, being well-informed is not optional. For any traveller, whether buying groceries or a high-end vacuum, the safest route may just be the Red Channel. When in doubt, declare. The few extra minutes it takes might save you hundreds of ringgit, a stern lecture, or worse, a full-scale investigation. Read also: Actress Juin Teh moves back to Johor to save on rent, commutes daily for work in Singapore
