The government is looking to level the playing field for other island operators by opening more travel bubbles based on monitoring of the pilot initiative in Langkawi.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Nancy Shukri reportedly said the ministry and state authorities will study the pilot travel bubble project in Langkawi and submit a report to the government for further actions by the National Security Council (NSC).
"As we continue to review and monitor Langkawi, we have submitted the mechanics that we see fit. However, the NSC is deciding whether it will be a bubble, interstate allowances or full revocation of interstate restrictions.
"We will make our recommendations based on the standard operating procedures," Nancy was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
With a fast-approaching monsoon season affecting east coast island resort operators, Nancy said it was crucial to provide them with similar opportunities for business in the remaining time.
She said the ministry had submitted a list of proposed islands and in cooperation with state governments established updated vaccination information of local residents, as well as the preparedness of local authorities and industry players.
"Like for Langkawi, we recommend those planning to travel take a swab test a few hours before their trip," she added.
Tourists travelling to Langkawi under the travel bubble initiative are mandated to get themselves tested for Covid-19 within 48 hours of their arrival.
The inaugural flights to Langkawi departed on Sept 16 and as of noon, from a total of 2,546 travellers screened at points of departure, five or 0.20 percent tested positive for Covid-19.
Putrajaya has carried out a mass immunisation exercise in Langkawi since June to prepare the island for tourists. - Mkini
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