Tourism activities can resume in Sarawak from Friday (Oct 1), says state Tourism Ministry

KUCHING: Tourism activities and attractions can resume operations in Sarawak from Friday (Oct 1), subject to strict standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The reopening of the tourism sector follows the state disaster management committee's announcement that Sarawak's southern zone would join the rest of the state in Phase Three of the National Recovery Plan on Friday.

The state Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said permitted activities included accommodation in hotels and homestays, special interest tourism activities such as golfing and other sports and recreation activities and ecotourism.

Activities at tourist attractions and arts, culture and heritage premises, including museums and galleries, were also allowed.

In addition, spas, reflexology and massage centres could operate in compliance with the SOPs.

The ministry said all tourists must be fully vaccinated, while children below 17 years old who were not vaccinated must remain with their vaccinated parents at all times.

"It is compulsory for all tourists to have digital vaccination certificates in the MySejahtera app or the original vaccination cards issued by the Health Ministry.

"Individuals who have yet to receive their Covid-19 vaccinations are not allowed to join tourism activities," the ministry said in a statement Wednesday (Sept 29).

It said tourists must obtain a police permit for interstate and inter-district travel and apply for approval to enter the state via the EnterSarawak website or app.

They must also produce a negative Covid-19 test result taken within three days before arrival in Sarawak.

During travel, tourists should monitor their health regularly and seek treatment if they show any symptoms.

They must show their vaccination certificates or cards upon request by the authorities or premises management.

The ministry said tour agencies and tourism service providers must ensure that their staff were fully vaccinated before operating tourism activities.

"Random RTK antigen tests should be done for the staff, bus drivers and tour guides," it added.

The SOP for tourism activities and business events in Sarawak can be downloaded from the ministry's website at mtac.sarawak.gov.my.