SINGAPORE: A Singaporean’s query on social media about whether it’s worth buying groceries from Johor Bahru (JB) prompted netizens to share the benefits of crossing the border for bulk purchases to manage the rising living costs in Singapore.
The Singaporean who posted pointed out that, like everyone, she is feeling the pinch of Singapore’s rising cost of living. She shared that, unlike before, “Now it seems like 50 bucks doesn’t do much.”
Many Singaporeans online noted that grocery shopping in JB is worth it, with one Singaporean sharing that he saves more than 25% of his monthly grocery budget by shopping in JB.
According to him, going once every two months for household products, tidbits, UHT milk, and canned food only costs him RM1,000 (around S$300) instead of S$420 in Singapore.
Others echoed this sentiment, adding that while they’re in JB, they also indulge in self-care.
One commenter said, “I stay in Tampines and drive to JB once every three months. I spend about S$250 (often less) for groceries and petrol. It lasts me about three months before I do another run.”
Comparing it to Singapore, she noted, “In Singapore, I spend about S$120-S$140 per month on groceries. In my opinion, it’s very worth it, and I can top up petrol, get a massage, and do my hair while I’m there too.”
Another resident shared that she goes every three months, focusing on dairy products like butter, cooking cream, milk, and root vegetables like onions, garlic, and ginger.
She also buys condiments, spices, clothing detergents, cooking oil, and medications.
“Driving in makes it much simpler to bring back large quantities. And while I’m there, I also do a hair treatment and massage before groceries. It makes the day fun,” she wrote.
Beyond groceries, items like contact lenses, medications, and electronics are cheaper in JB, said another user. “Every item is cheaper in JB than in SG,” another added.
However, some Singaporeans expressed reservations, citing the time-consuming nature of border crossings and traffic jams.
“My weekend is precious and getting stuck in a jam for hours before spending the day in a crowded mall sounds awful,” said one commenter.
“Wouldn’t do it for groceries; necessities are cheap enough here unless you live in Woodlands or somewhere up north where JB is easily accessible.
But getting stuff like baby supplies or snacks or other non-perishables is a lot cheaper there,” another commenter added.
“Buying from online platforms during sales is enough and comparable. They deliver to your doorstep at lower prices. Why cross over to Malaysia?
The insane amount of time and effort to cross and come back is just not worth it,” another pointed out, noting that vouchers during sale periods cut the expenses./TISG
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