Eh, you all also feel the CNY madness in JB ah? Seems like everyone and their ah ma also chionging across the causeway! The HardwareZone forum is buzzing with the latest updates, from jam-packed checkpoints to restaurant price hikes. This post covers the period from 17th Jan to 30th Jan 2025, giving you the inside scoop on what’s happening and how to navigate this CNY rush like a pro.
What HWZ Insiders Are Saying
HardwareZone forum users are not shy about sharing their experiences, and the recent JB discussions are no exception. Here are some key takeaways:
- CNY Surcharges are a Thing: Some restaurants, like Oriental Kopi, tried to implement CNY surcharges, but faced backlash. As one user pointed out, “For every customer not willing to pay surcharge…will have another customer hoping they stay open and dun mind paying a bit more.”
- Checkpoints are Crazy: Expect long queues at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. One forumer described the scene: “The jam is ridiculous even after midnight to go in or get out of Malaysia.” Another mentioned a 3-hour wait just to clear customs!
- Shop Openings Vary: Not all shops are open during the CNY period. Forum users reported varying opening rates at malls like Aeon Tebrau and Bukit Indah, with some Chinese-owned places closed.
- Food Quality Can Be Hit-or-Miss: Some users had bad experiences with cold roti canai, while others found gems like Furusato Japanese Restaurant. One user complained, “The Roti Canai (RM$9) was cold, I would not recommend.”
- CW Bus is a Hot Topic: Many forum users are discussing the pros and cons of the CW bus, especially regarding its special lane at the 2nd link. One user said, “CW bus seen to have special lane to the CIQ. So even if the coaches jam to the bridge, CW bus still no jam at all.”
What Singaporeans Can Do
So, what can you do to make your JB trips smoother during this CNY period?
- Plan Ahead: Check forum discussions for the latest updates on shop openings and checkpoint conditions. Consider going after the initial CNY rush.
- Be Prepared for Surcharges: Some establishments may add CNY surcharges, so factor that into your budget. Or better still, go to those that don’t.
- Consider Alternative Transport: The CW bus seems to be a popular option, especially if you’re going via the 2nd link. But also be prepared for long queues.
- Explore Local Eateries: Don’t just stick to the usual haunts. Try some of the local recommendations from the forum, like the nasi padang at SSW Sari Wangi.
- Patience is Key: Expect crowds and delays, especially at the checkpoints. Take a deep breath and remember to practice good Singaporean manners!
Latest Trends & Updates
Here’s what’s trending in the JB discussions:
- E-gates at KSAB: New e-gates are being installed at the Sultan Iskandar Building (KSAB), which hopefully will speed up the immigration process.
- Ringgit Rate Fluctuations: The ringgit exchange rate is constantly being monitored. One user reported a rate of 3.21 at Sun Plaza Ahnaaf Money Exchange on 27th Jan.
- CNY Goodies Galore: KSL City Mall is a popular spot for buying CNY goodies, with deals like 10 for 100 MYR.
- More Buses: There are new bus routes and services being discussed, including a new JPO/Kulai route.
Real Storeis from Fellow Singaporeans
Here are some real experiences shared by forum users:
I kena in the middle. Many boomer food i dont like, like bkt all those. And i esp cant stand mala, hdl, and all that prc stuff
SantyBalls (26 January 2025)
Came in last minute last evening and 8pm sentral 3.22 SGD dropped sooo much?? anyway bought lots of CNY goodies at ksl 10 for 100 MYR damm worth it. finished massage, HDL and now back SG.
dc7176 (27 January 2025)
CNY day 2. Aeon mall bukit indah. 80% open. Chinese places like Bao zan, eu Yan seng closed. Verbana bakery also closed. Eco botanic cafe and restaurant, 60% open.
lasnoblur (30 January 2025)
We would never know right ? Also, I don’t see why the extra cost needs to be passed to the customers tbh ? If the company doesn’t want to pay the workers OT for day 1 and day 2, then just closed shop lor ? Problem solved right. But no, they want to open as usual but have customers pay for it. I know free market, so I guessed if someone happy to pay, then ok lor.
Meemoosaa (26 January 2025)
i don’t think any “friend” should do that. basically, shops in malls “have to open” it’s in their lease agreement, open everyday, so if you go big malls, like AEON, confirm got shops open, just not all, and those that are closed are approved by the mall and they stick a huge notice on their shutter gate. shops with their own doors can keep the lights on but “close the shop” outside shops, standard is 2 days closed, day 1 and 2, the rest depends on the boss and their staff. food will have, those that are not chinese; korean bbq, the new pub outside my place was open last night, WTM across the street also open. this morning quite dead, later going over to Tebrau and will update from there.
Aaagogo (29 January 2025)
References: Continue the Discussion
For more detailed discussions on Forum Discussion, check out these HardwareZone forum threads: