Attached is an extract of FAQ on the AVA websites that mentioned the only exemption of regulation for plant importation from West Malaysia, however it seems that CITES permit requirement is still applicable.
Q1: What are the regulations regarding the import of plants?
A:
• The import of plants is regulated by the Phytosanitary and Plant Quarantine Section of AVA.
• Plants can be imported into Singapore subject to the following requirements.
• West Malaysia: Presently there is no restriction.
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• Countries other than from South Africa Tropic: If the plant is imported without soil or growing medium (bare-rooted), a phytosannnitory certificate is required from the country of origin, declaring that the soil or growing medium is treated with the pesticides stated in the permit. If the plant is imported with soil or growing/potting medium (peat moss etc), an AVA Import Permit is required. The permit costs $18 and is valid for one consignment only and can be used within.
• 3 months. This permit should be acquired prior to import.
• Countries from South America Tropic: The import of soil/other growing medium or plants with soil/growing medium is not allowed. In addition to an AVA Import permit, the phytosanitary certificate form the country of origin should state that "The plants are free from South American Leaf Blight (Microcyclus ulei) or produced in regions free from South American Leaf Blight.
• In addition to the above conditions, all plants will be subjected to a post-entry inspection by AVA.
• For CITES controlled plants (Endangered plants), a CITES permit is required for import.