17 January 2023
On 8 December 2022, Indonesia’s Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Agency (PVMBG) has lowered the alert-level for Mount Semeru from Level 4 (Awas or Warning) to Level 3 (Siaga or Standby). PVMBG has warned residents not to carry out any activities within 5km of the crater, as well as from the southeast area of Mount Semeru along the Besuk Kobokan river, up to 13 kilometres from the crater, and 500 metres from any Besuk Kobokan riverbank.
Given the volcanic activity of Mount Semeru, Singaporeans should defer non-essential travel to the affected areas at this juncture. Singaporeans in Lumajang and Malang should monitor these developments closely and avoid Mount Semeru and its vicinity. They should take the necessary precautions for their personal safety and e-Register with MFA immediately at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg if they have not done so. Those who are in need of consular assistance may contact the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at:
Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Jakarta
Tel: +62 (21) 2995 0400 during office hours, or the 24-hour hotline +62 811 863 348 for emergencies outside of office hours
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)
Tel: +65 6379 8800, 6379 8855
Local media has reported that a demonstration to commemorate May Day will take place tomorrow, 1 May 2019 in Medan. The event is expected to start at 8.00 am. It has been reported that a crowd will gather at the Governor's Office at Jalan Dipoengoro. Singaporeans in Medan are advised to closely monitor local media for updates and developments, including possible road closures and/or diversions that could affect travel plans. As with all overseas travel, Singaporeans are also advised to exercise vigilance and take the necessary precautions for their personal safety. Singaporeans can e-Register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ Singaporeans in need of urgent consular assistance may contact the Singapore Consulate-General in Medan at +62 (61) 8050 1500 or +62 811 6170 339 (24 hours). Singaporeans can also contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours) at +65 6379 8800 or +65 6379 8855, and via email mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg
In view of the upcoming school holidays, Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorism. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws and customs restrictions, including immigration procedures and entry requirements. Singaporeans travelling to and from Malaysia, in particular via the land checkpoints, are reminded to ensure that your passport is presented to a Malaysian immigration officer and stamped correctly before leaving the Malaysian immigration booth. Failure to do so is an immigration offence in Malaysia and the penalties can be severe, including detention, a fine, and a ban from future entry into the country. In 2019, demonstrations have occurred in several major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and to heed advice of the local authorities. For those planning to travel, here are some tips: Before travelling • Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions. • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage. • Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs. • eRegister with us on our website (https://www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency. While travelling • Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments. • Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances. • Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters or terror attacks. • Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details. In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/8855.
