Malaysia Government Discussing The Possibility Of Allowing Interstate Travel Soon
After months of border closures, the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi finally reopened to its first batch of fully vaccinated local tourists on 16 September following the launch of the highly anticipated Langkawi Travel Bubble project. The government is predicting an influx of approximately 200,000 domestic tourists to visit Langkawi over the next few months, and the reception since the reopening is looking positive so far.
This week, the Malaysian government announced that discussions are ongoing to explore the possibility of lifting the interstate travel ban that has been implemented nationwide since early this year after COVID-19 cases in Malaysia soared to new heights. The prolonged interstate travel ban has since brought about months of tourism drought and bleak days for local operators in the tourism sector across Malaysia.
Popular Destinations To Potentially Reopen To Fully Vaccinated Visitors
The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Nancy Shukri mentioned in a parliamentary sitting this week that the government will be taking the next two to three days to discuss potentially relaxing the interstate travel SOPs.
In fact, the ministry has already listed several destinations that are looking to reopen to fully vaccinated visitors soon, this includes popular getaway spots such as Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill, Janda Baik, as well as island destinations like Pulau Redang, Pulau Pangkor, and Pulau Tioman. She also emphasized that the Langkawi Travel Bubble project is currently being closely monitored, and similar destinations will be allowed to reopen as well if things are looking good.
Three Destinations Shortlisted To Reopen From Oct 1
[Update, 22 Sept] Of all the proposed destinations, it has been mentioned that domestic tourism may be allowed to three destinations from Oct 1 (tentative date) onwards. The shortlisted destinations are Melaka, Pulau Tioman, and Genting Highlands. Two weeks will be provided for these tourist destinations to take the necessary preparations in order to reopen to visitors safely and smoothly. SOPs will also be lined out in the next two weeks. More updates to follow!
A Gentle Reminder To Everyone
We sure look forward to positive news and some light at the end of the tunnel, but in the meantime, we'd like to encourage everyone to always remain cautious when going out and about - make sure not to put your guard down even though many SOPs have been relaxed over the past few weeks. Remember that even fully vaccinated individuals are susceptible to the COVID-19 virus, so be sure to keep your masks up, maintain your distance, and be a responsible citizen for the health and safety of yourself and your loved ones. Stay safe everyone! #kitajagakita
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