The upgraded Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT), operated by the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC), has officially reopened following a year-long, $20 million renovation. The enhanced terminal promises a faster, more seamless travel experience for passengers heading to the Riau Islands, Indonesia, and Johor, Malaysia, while introducing a host of new amenities for added convenience and comfort.
Streamlined Travel with Self-Service Check-ins and Automated Lanes
TMFT now boasts 15 self-service kiosks and six bag-drop counters, eliminating the need for long queues at ferry operator counters. By the end of the year, SCC expects 70% of passengers to use the self-check-in kiosks, where they can scan their passports to print boarding passes and luggage tags.
In the immigration halls, Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has rolled out its passport-less clearance system. Arriving and departing Singapore residents, as well as departing foreign travelers, can clear immigration in just 10 seconds using facial and iris biometrics. This system is 60% faster than traditional passport checks and has increased immigration clearance capacity by 50%, with 26 lanes for arrivals and 20 for departures.
These enhancements are part of ICA’s New Clearance Concept, aimed at delivering a faster and more secure border clearance experience.
Enhanced Amenities for Travelers
Beyond faster clearances, the revamped terminal offers a range of new facilities. Travelers can enjoy dining at F&B outlets such as Woon’s Kopi by Killiney, Subway, Luckin Coffee, and Lepak Corner, or relax at the expanded departure lounges, which now include a new lounge in addition to the Bintan Resorts Ferries Emerald Lounge.
For families, the outdoor children’s playground provides a space for kids to unwind, while business travelers can utilize convertible ‘flexi’ rooms for meetings before heading to Batam or Bintan. Additional amenities include a prayer room and upgraded services to cater to diverse traveler needs.
Supporting Regional Connectivity
The upgraded TMFT underscores SCC’s commitment to bolstering regional connectivity, complementing its other operations at HarbourFront Centre and Pasir Panjang terminals. With the surge in regional travel, TMFT is now better equipped to handle the growing passenger demand while maintaining a high standard of service.
The terminal was officially inaugurated by Mr. Murali Pillai, Minister of State for the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Transport, marking a milestone in Singapore’s efforts to enhance travel infrastructure.
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