Malaysians told to be cautious in Hong Kong

PETALING JAYA: As Hong Kongers take their protest for democracy to their international gateway at the airport, Malaysia Airlines say their flights to and from the territory remain as scheduled.

Malaysians residing in the special administrative region, meanwhile, are advised to stay away from public demonstration hotspots after the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) became the latest focal point of protests.

Although no flights back and forth from the semi-autonomous region had been disrupted, the Consulate-General of Malaysia in Hong Kong and Macao has advised Malaysians to monitor Hong Kong news and the Hong Kong Transport Department’s Special Traffic News page for updates.

“This advice is to aid Malaysians in avoiding inconveniences such as services, traffic and transport disruptions in the said areas, as well as to help ensure their well-being,” it said in a statement.

In an email reply to The Star yesterday, the consulate said, “please note that this notice is subject to review based on developments on the ground”.

Meanwhile, checks with airlines flying to and from Hong Kong yesterday found that flights were running as scheduled, with Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Cathay Pacific all confirming flights were operating as usual.

Malaysia Airlines also said that in anticipation of the rally, passengers were advised to arrive early at the airport to avoid congestion.

It added that its check-in counters at HKIA were also opened three hours prior to scheduled departure for MH073 (2.35pm) and MH433 (6.35pm).

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents has also advised Malaysians in Hong Kong to be cautious and be in contact with the Foreign Ministry.

Its president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said that tour companies were still taking tourists to Hong Kong but added that it is currently the low season, and there were not many Malaysians going there for tourism.

“I also believe that Hong Kong is safe, I think they’re mature and the protestors will not harm tourists.

“But we do encourage tourists to take precautions and be in contact with the Foreign Ministry,” said Tan when contacted.

Hundreds of protesters staged a sit-in yesterday at the airport, one of Asia’s busiest, leading several countries to issue travel advisories for the city.

The demonstrators at the airport were voicing their opposition to the contentious extradition Bill by holding up signs at the airport arrival hall.

Although the city’s chief executive, Carrie Lam said the Bill was dead, it has yet to be withdrawn.

With the latest large-scale protest rocking the territory, other countries have issued travel warning.

Ireland was the first, followed by Canada, Japan, South Korea and Singapore.

Malaysians requiring consular assistance may contact the Consulate-General of Malaysia in Hong Kong at +852 2821 0800 / mwhongkong@kln.gov.my (or +852-6900-6390 after office hours).- Star