Trade minister Gan Kim Yong, co-chair of the Covid-19 task force, said the reopening of the border was a major undertaking.

“We don’t think we can pre-determine the date but this is something we are watching closely and when conditions allow then we can talk about reopening,” he said, according to Bernama.

Gan said the republic is working out the detailed operation arrangements with Malaysia and will share more details when it is ready.

Transport and immigration authorities were “working out operational details to ensure that when we are able to allow more traffic to cross, it can be done smoothly and safely,” said Gan.

Officials will also be looking into the use of cars, motorcycles, and additional buses, including private coaches that would be engaged by companies for ferrying their workers back and forth.

In the wake of the Malaysian announcement on reopening its border on April 1, the task force was asked for the specific details that are being worked out.

“We are looking at various aspects, and this also involves significant adjustment and fine-tuning of the operations on the ground,” Gan said.

“Bearing in mind that today we have a few thousand (Covid-19 cases) a day and in time to come we may have a significant number of people crossing (the border) on a daily basis,” said the minister.

Health minister Ong Ye Kung said the two health ministries are in constant contact and “I think we need to time it right … they must be done when the pandemic situation on both sides allows it”.

Singapore reported 16,165 new Covid-19 cases up to noon on Thursday, with six fatalities.

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