A recent Whatsapp message and social media post have been circulating, claiming that the Tuas checkpoint now has a new fuel tank scanning machine to enforce the 3/4 tank rule. The post went viral as it included photos of a new process, where users would need to alight, declare the goods and scan all relevant travel documents.
However, the truth is that the prototype is not a fuel tank scanning machine. Instead, it is a prototype of automatic Passenger in-car Clearance with fingerprint scanning. The three-step procedure that users need to follow in the picture is a part of this prototype model. The device is meant to check passports and identities of passengers, and it is currently under trial in Tuas checkpoint.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has advised the public not to spread unverified sources of information, as this can cause confusion and misinterpretation of facts. While the photos may have misled people into thinking that the Tuas checkpoint now has a fuel tank scanning machine, this is not the case.
Nevertheless, it is still important to remind drivers in Singapore’s community not to commit the offence of leaving the country with less than 3/4 tank. This offence carries a fine of up to S$500. The ICA should be commended for finding ways to improve security measures while making the clearance process quicker and more efficient using technology such as the automatic Passenger in-car Clearance prototype.
In conclusion, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction when it comes to important news stories such as this. It is vital to verify the authenticity of information before spreading it on social media platforms. Misleading or false news can cause confusion and harm both the public and the government. It is always better to be safe than sorry, and to be mindful of the potential consequences of carelessly sharing unverified news online.
Keywords: Automatic Scanning Machine, Tuas Checkpoint, Fuel Tank Scanning, Social Media, Verification, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.