Hoteliers in Malaysia welcome hotel stay for fully vaccinated people

Covid-19 restrictions were eased from Aug 10 for those who have been fully vaccinated, and living in states that are already in Phase Two of the NRP. — GLENN GUAN/The Star

The relaxation announced for fully vaccinated people has been hailed by tourism stakeholders in the country. Many in the heavily battered travel sector heaved a sigh of relief when Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin made the announcement recently.

Beginning Aug 10, tourism activities involving homestays and hotels within the same state was allowed. This, however, only applies to states under Phase Two (and above) of the National Recovery Plan.

The relaxation is a significant step forward not just for the tourism industry but also the country, said Malaysian Association of Hotels chief executive officer Yap Lip Seng.

"It bears commitment from the government to transition the country from the state of pandemic to accepting Covid-19 as endemic," he said in a statement.

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According to Yap, the hospitality industry can now at least plan for the future with a silver lining in sight.

"While these are relatively small progressive steps especially for the tourism industry, the industry can now prepare itself for an impending reopening," he said.

Food for thought

During his special address, Muhyiddin said the Covid-19 digital vaccination certification will be used to verify an individual's immunisation status to the authorities.

"Homestay and hotel operators must ensure that those patronising their premises must show the digital Covid-19 certification to prove that they are fully vaccinated," he added.

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Dine-ins at restaurants or cafes at clubhouse premises will be also be allowed and customers must show their digital vaccination certificate to verify immunisation status.

At the same time, Muhyiddin cautioned that the loosened restrictions did not mean Malaysians can ignore SOP to curb Covid-19.

"The government will not hesitate to retract all the loosened restrictions announced if there is non-compliance with the SOP," Muhyiddin warned.Yap assured that hotels will take all the necessary actions to ensure SOP is adhered to.

"The overall high compliance of SOP by hotels is an added assurance to the general public that it is safe to dine and even stay whether it is just for a short staycation or for any other travel purposes," he said, adding that allowing dine-in at restaurants is expected to benefit hotels too, and not just independent restaurants or cafes.

Yap highlighted initiatives such as ventilation, airflow and seating arrangements as part of safety and health guidelines for restaurants within hotels.