Health DG: Malaysia discussing ‘travel bubble’ SOP with six countries

CORONAVIRUS | Malaysia is conducting preliminary discussions with six countries on possible bilateral “travel bubbles”, said Health Ministry Director-General Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

The six countries are Singapore, Brunei, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

Speaking during his Covid-19 briefing today, Noor Hisham said that travel to and from these countries would be allowed once a shared standard operating procedure (SOP) was in place.

Noor Hisham did not offer a time-frame for when this SOP would be finalised.

“We are in (the) very early stage of discussions, so we hope that we can come up with a new mutual agreement in terms of implementation.

“Both sides have to come out with an agreement and then if we can do that, we can allow (travel) in terms of the business, education, and tourism sectors, etc,” he said.

Malaysia had closed its international borders on March 18 when it implemented the movement control order.

Foreign nationals were not allowed to travel into the country while citizens were banned from travelling abroad.

Up until June 10, Malaysians entering the country from abroad needed to be screened and quarantined at designated centres for 14 days before they were allowed to return home. Homecoming citizens now need to observe home quarantine.

Earlier today, Defence Minister Ismail Sabri that "Employment Pass 1" holders from four countries - Singapore, Brunei, Australia and New Zealand - will be allowed into the country provided they are screened beforehand. They will not need to undergo quarantine upon arrival.

Foreign nationals intending to enter Malaysia for medical treatment will also be allowed provided they register with the Malaysian Health Tourism Council before entry.   - Mkini