HazelDiary

If you’re a durian lover like me, you’ll know that durian season calls for a proper feast. What a better way to do it than with a day trip across Johor. Gather your foodie friends, prep your stomachs, and hit the road for a delicious 1-day itinerary from Kulai to Tangkak and back to Johor Bahru (JB).

Read more: [JB Travels] One Day Durian Road Trip to Johor: From Kulai to Tangkak Back to Singapore

We had a big group, so we rented a car for 12 hours at RM420, with an additional charge of RM35 per extra hour. In the end, we exceeded the time by 4 hours, but it was still a worthwhile trip. Totally worth it for the durian experience. Alternatively you can join Durian Day Trip Tour and quote “HAZELOFFKLOOK” for 5% discount with minimum spend of S$50.00.

First Stop: Kulai – Breakfast and Walk Around

Our journey began bright and early in Kulai, a charming town with a small Hakka village known as Kelapa Sawit. It’s a popular weekend escape spot for locals, and for good reason.

We started the day with a hearty yet wholesome Hakka breakfast at Volcano Coffee House Lei-Cha. Their extensive menu features a variety of Hakka specialties, and we basically ordered them all—Lei Cha, Abacus Seeds, Hakka Fried Pork, Yong Tau Foo, and Choy Ban. Overall, everything was pretty decent, though the Abacus Seeds were a bit underwhelming and could probably be skipped. The standout dish? Definitely the Hakka Fried Pork—it was a crowd favourite.
We kicked off the day with a healthy yet hearty Hakka breakfast at Volcano Coffee House Lei-Cha. Their menu is quite extensive and basically we ordered all Hakka speciality dishes. Lei Cha, Abacus Seed, Hakka fried pork, Yong Tau Fu and their Choy Ban. All are pretty decent except the Abacus Seed maybe can skip this. The Hakka fried pork was everyone’s favourite.                                                          

You can also try out Man Ting Fang, famous for their Lei Cha (Thunder Tea Rice). The bowl came packed with crunchy vegetables, tofu, peanuts, and a savoury green tea soup—perfect fuel before a durian feast. The flavours here are much stronger.

Don’t leave without trying their handmade Choy Ban (Hakka Dumplings). It is freshly made on the spot and there are priced at RM1.50 per piece. we loved it so much, we tapao-ed a few boxes back.

Kelapa Sawit Wall Art

Right after breakfast, we strolled around to snap some photos at the Kelapa Sawit Wall Art, an Instagram-worthy area filled with vibrant murals showcasing Hakka heritage and rural life.

Durian Feast at Tangkak – Two Stops for the King of Fruits

After fueling up in Kulai, we hit the road for a 1.5-hour drive to Tangkak—a town known for housing some of Johor’s best durian farms. Along the way, we started spotting durian sellers lining the streets of Johor.

Mt Ophir Durian Farm

Our first stop was a scenic one, located near nature with stunning views of Mount Ophir. We reached around 2PM, but unfortunately, there were only two varieties left: Milk Durian (Susu) and Durian Kampung, both priced at RM16/kg. The durians were smooth, creamy, and had a pleasant bittersweet note—it was love at first bite. Although the farm is highly recommended online, we were a little let down by the limited selection. We were hoping to try Mao Shan Wang, but it wasn’t available.

Ho Lee Seng

We couldn’t resist a second round and made a quick 10-minute drive to Ho Lee Seng. Here, we finally got our fix of the highly sought-after Mao Shan Wang (Musang King), and even discovered a cheesy, creamy variety that was unexpectedly addictive. Prices for Mao Shan Wang start from RM30, depending on the grade. Each durian had a beautiful golden-yellow flesh and was incredibly flavourful. It was so good that everyone ended up tapao-ing some home. The durians were vacuum-sealed, making them easy to bring back to Singapore.

If you’re up for more, Tangkak is also famous for its beef noodles and chendol. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time this round but it’s something to bookmark for next trip!

Dinner Back in JB – Halal-Friendly Seafood

After a satisfying durian adventure, we made our way back to Johor Bahru for dinner and ended the day at a Chinese Muslim restaurant. It is an ideal spot for groups with halal preferences. We initially planned to dine at Ong Shun Seafood, a popular Muslim-friendly zi char spot, but unfortunately, it was temporarily closed for a few days due to not meeting hygiene standards set by the authorities. A quick Google search led us to an alternative, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise with good food and reasonable prices.

Ghanim Seafood Restaurant

Located in JB, Ghanim Seafood Restaurant offers Chinese-style seafood dishes in a Muslim-friendly setting. The food was flavourful, portions generous, and prices reasonable. Recommend to give it a try if you are looking for halal seafood choices.

Alternatively, there are many other seafood restaurants in Johor Bahru to check out as well.

It was a great trip overall, even though we didn’t manage to squeeze in any shopping due to the long travel time between Singapore and Tangkak. That said, our main mission was durians—and we fulfilled that! The durians in Tangkak were not only fresh and delicious but also much more affordable compared to those in Johor Bahru. We even spotted some JB stalls selling durians at RM98/kg, whereas the ones we had in Tangkak were priced significantly lower, making the journey well worth it.

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*Updated on 09 December 2024*

Starting from October 1st, drivers of Singapore-registered private cars must obtain a VEP and RFID tag. If you are unable to install the RFID tag by the deadline, you can still enter Johor after October 1st by presenting the confirmation slip from your VEP application to Malaysian officers. However, it is essential to install the RFID tag on your car as soon as possible thereafter.

Read more: Guide on How to Deregister and Re-apply VEP Tag for Singapore Registered Car to enter Malaysia

If you’re planning to drive your Singapore registered car to Malaysia and need to apply for the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) tag but encounter issues such as a second-hand car or ownership transfer problems, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to resolve it:

Step 1: Email Application for Deregistration

Firstly, you need to initiate the process by sending an email to aduanvep@jpj.gov.my. In your email, clearly state that you are requesting to deregister your vehicle and VEP tag. Be sure to attach the following documents:

1. NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) – Clear copy of the owner’s NRIC.
2. LTA Document – Document from the Land Transport Authority (LTA) confirming vehicle details and ownership status.
3. Transfer of Ownership – If the car is not under your name, provide documentation showing the transfer of ownership.
4. Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) – Required if the car is registered under a company. Provide relevant documentation from ACRA.
5. Retain Vehicle Registration Document – If you retain the same car plate number after a transfer or ownership change, include this document.

Step 2: Submission and Approval

After submitting your email with the attached documents, wait for confirmation from JPJ (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan Malaysia). They will review your application and documents. If everything is in order, you will receive an approval email from them.

Step 3: Re-apply on the VEP Portal

Once you have received approval for deregistration, proceed to re-apply for the VEP tag through the official VEP Portal. Ensure all required documents and information are prepared as per the portal’s guidelines.

Additional Tips:

• Accuracy and Completeness: Double-check all documents before submission to avoid delays or rejections.
• Timely Submission: Submit your application well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for processing time.
• Follow-up: If you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, politely follow up with JPJ via email to inquire about the status of your application.

Here are the steps for the VEP registration :

Step 1: Register Online at the Official VEP Portal

The first step is to register online at the official Malaysia VEP portal on the Road Transport Department (JPJ) website: https://vep.jpj.gov.my.

Create an Account:
You must create an account to start your VEP application. This account allows you to check the status of your application and make updates. Use your NRIC (for Singaporeans) or passport number for foreigners. Remember, this account can’t be amended or deleted, so choose an email address that you will always have access to.

Enter Your Details:
Provide the personal details of the car’s registered owner and vehicle information. If you’re applying for multiple vehicles, they can all be registered under one account.

Tip: Avoid manually entering your car registration details by uploading a PDF of your vehicle registration, which can be downloaded from the OneMotoring website.

Important: If you sell your vehicle, remember to deactivate it on your VEP account. Otherwise, you may still be responsible for any penalties accrued by the new owner.

After successful registration, you’ll receive a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download and Set Up the Touch ‘n Go eWallet

While waiting for the confirmation email, download the Touch ‘n Go eWallet from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Why the Touch ‘n Go eWallet?
This eWallet is linked to your VEP-RFID tag, making it easy to pay for road charges and tolls in Malaysia. You can also use it to reload your Touch ‘n Go Card, which can be used for road tolls and the mandatory RM20 (approximately S$5.75) road charge for all foreign-registered vehicles.

Pro Tip: Be careful when selecting your ID type in the eWallet. For Singaporeans, choose NRIC as your ID type, and for foreigners, select Passport. If you choose the wrong ID type, your eWallet and VEP may be mismatched, leading to delays.

If a mistake is made, you’ll need to create a new eWallet account to correct it.

Step 3: Receive and Install Your VEP-RFID Tag

Once your registration is approved, proceed with payment and choose how you’d like to collect your VEP-RFID tag. Payment can be made on the official portal: https://vepams.jpj.gov.my.

Tag and Collection Fees:

• Tag Processing Fee: RM10 (approximately S$2.87)
• Collection Agent Service Fee: RM29.50 (approximately S$8.47)
• Courier Service Fee: This fee depends on the provider.

Installation Instructions:
Previously, you had to travel to Malaysia to get the tag fitted. Now, you can install the RFID tag yourself. It can be placed on the left side of your windscreen or headlamp. Detailed instructions will be provided with the tag.

Once the tag is fitted, log back into your VEP account to acknowledge the tag by clicking the Acknowledgement button next to your vehicle number. Don’t forget to input your RFID serial number for validation.

P/S: you can get this Arcylic RFID holder card instead of pasting directly to your car screen.

If you’ve booked an appointment to collect your VEP tag at the selected location, be sure to come prepared with a copy of your Passport, Appointment Slip, and Payment Receipt. Avoid unnecessary delays or extra charges—having these documents ready means you can head straight to the counter for collection and installation. Don’t sit and wait to be called, only to pay an additional RM10 for printing of same documents.

Driving into Malaysia from Singapore without a VEP after October 1st, 2024, may lead to:

• Denial of entry
• Fines of up to RM2,000 (approximately S$425)
• Up to 6 months imprisonment

Update as of June 2025: Malaysia will begin enforcement action on Singapore-registered vehicles entering the country without a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) from 1 July 2025.

You can check the status of your application at vepams.jpj.gov.my

To avoid these consequences, it’s advisable to apply for your VEP well ahead of time, particularly if you plan to travel frequently between Singapore and Malaysia.

Or just book a private charter car services from Singapore to Johor Bahru instead!

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1. Mural Art Trail: Embark on a visual journey through the city’s streets adorned with captivating murals. The Mural Art Trail showcases the artistic flair of local and international talents, depicting scenes that tell the stories of Ipoh’s past and present. Wander through the lanes and alleys to discover these vibrant and Instagram-worthy artworks that add a splash of color to the city’s charm.
2. Visit Concubine Lane: Step back in time as you wander down the historic Concubine Lane, a narrow alley with a fascinating past. Lined with quaint shops, cafes, and street vendors, this cultural enclave offers a glimpse into Ipoh’s early days. Explore the unique architecture, indulge in local delicacies, and uncover the tales of Concubine Lane’s intriguing history.
3. Visit Cave Temples: Ipoh is home to several magnificent cave temples, each with its own unique charm. Explore the intricate cave structures adorned with religious artifacts and statues. Perak Cave Temple and Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple are two notable examples that provide a serene escape from the city hustle, allowing you to appreciate the spiritual and natural beauty of these sacred spaces.
4. Visit Limestone Cave: Venture into the depths of Ipoh’s limestone caves for a surreal experience. Gua Tempurung, one of the largest limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, offers guided tours that cater to different levels of adventure. Marvel at the stalactite formations, underground rivers, and spacious chambers, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of nature.
5. Visit Miner’s Tunnel & Tasik Cermin: Embark on a unique adventure by exploring the historical Kellie’s Castle and the fascinating Miner’s Tunnel. Discover the tales of the tin-mining era and stroll through the picturesque Tasik Cermin, a hidden mirror lake surrounded by lush greenery. This tranquil spot provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
6. Sunday Flea Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting Ipoh’s Sunday Flea Market. Held weekly, this bustling market offers a diverse array of goods, from antiques and handicrafts to local snacks and souvenirs. Engage with friendly locals, hone your bargaining skills, and uncover hidden gems as you explore the lively stalls lining the streets.
7. Ho Yan Hor Museum: For a dose of cultural and historical insight, visit the Ho Yan Hor Museum. Discover the origins and legacy of the famous herbal tea brand, Ho Yan Hor, and gain a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese medicine. The museum provides an interactive experience, allowing visitors to explore the brand’s evolution and its impact on health and wellness.

Ipoh, with its blend of history, art, and natural wonders, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking an authentic Malaysian adventure. Whether you’re captivated by the city’s street art, exploring ancient caves, or indulging in local markets, Ipoh promises a memorable journey filled with cultural richness and enchanting discoveries. Plan your trip to this charming city and unlock the secrets that make Ipoh a destination worth exploring.

Happy Exploring!

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