Malaysian tourism is facing restrictions all over again due to the new COVID-19 variant Omicron. Malaysia got its first case of the new variant from a traveller who arrived in the country from South Africa. Authorities in Malaysia are also trying to verify 18 more suspected cases of Omicron. Amid the fears of the virus, the country has banned mass gatherings. No mass gatherings will be allowed in Malaysia for New Year. Also, those who are taking part in private Christmas and New Year celebrations must undergo self COVID-19 tests.
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Also Read: Germany Omicron Update: Those With COVID-19 Booster Shots Do Not Need To Undergo Testing
What Are The New Travel Guidelines Of Malaysia Amid Omicron Scare?
In view of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, Malaysia has issued the following guidelines:
- Mass gatherings in the country will remain banned for the festive season.
- People attending private celebrations for Christmas and New Year must undergo self COVID-19 tests.
- Those aged above 60, who have been jabbed with Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine, will have to get a booster dose by February. Only then they will get the full vaccination status. Also, experts have advised people to take a third dose of the vaccine, as according to research, antibodies created by Sinovac and BioNTech can combat the new variant of Omicron.
- Malaysia has temporarily banned international travellers from 8 countries. 9 countries including India have been identified as ‘high-risk’ nations. Travellers from these nations need to undergo compulsory quarantine. Also, digital tracking devices will be fitted on them.
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Also Read: Ladakh And Srinagar Issue New Travel Guidelines Amid Omicron Fear; Details Here
Malaysia Is Prioritising Safety For International Travel
Earlier, the government advisory council of Malaysia had announced that the nation would open international borders for tourists from January 1, 2022. Now, to combat the spread of Omicron, the country is tightening travel restrictions yet again. The reopening of international tourism would give a boost to the tourism sector which had already faced tremendous losses amid the pandemic. But prioritising safety, the new guidelines have been released. Singapore too has issued similar guidelines.