Yes, interstate travel rules are more stringent now, says Deputy IGP

PETALING JAYA: Bukit Aman has confirmed that interstate travel conditions have been tightened.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said the decision to impose more stringent controls on issuing interstate travel permits was made last week, following the increase in Covid-19 cases over the past four days.

"Yes, I can confirm that police have tightened the terms to approve interstate travel," he said when contacted on Monday (April 19).

A circular has been making its rounds on WhatsApp claiming the strict terms for approval were imposed on the orders of IGP Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador.

Interstate travel will only be allowed for work, emergencies, deaths (only involving immediate family members), medical reasons, education, as well as long distance relationships (between married couples).

"Aside from emergencies, deaths and long distance relationships, all other reasons stated will only be approved for travel between Monday and Thursday, while any journeys planned from Friday to Sunday will not be approved," he said in a statement on Monday.

The circular, said to be effective April 15, also stated that reasons such as weddings, kenduri and other social events would not be considered.

"This arrangement will go on until after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

"Those who do not comply will face stern action," he said.