With borders reopened, Malaysians allowed to travel abroad – but not to incoming tourists, says PM

PETALING JAYA: International borders will be reopened beginning Monday (Oct 11) and fully-vaccinated Malaysians will be allowed to travel abroad, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

"The government agrees to allow Malaysians to travel overseas without the need for the #MyTravelPass from the Immigration Department," he said during a special address on Sunday (Oct 10).

Ismail Sabri also added that with the abolishment of MyTravelPass, Malaysians are allowed to travel overseas for tourism.

"Only if they are fully vaccinated," he added.

However, Ismail Sabri said this does not mean that Malaysian borders have been reopened for incoming tourists.

"Studies are still ongoing and God willing, we will make an announcement as soon as possible."

Ismail Sabri said the government was evaluating countries that considered as low risk for Covid-19.

"Now, most countries in the world have vaccinated their people and this development will be considered by the Health Ministry as it decides to reopen our international borders, he added.

Ismail Sabri said fully-vaccinated Malaysians who are returning to the country must be tested for Covid-19 before departure and upon arriving back home.

"Travellers must do a swab test three days before returning to Malaysia, and another swab test upon arriving Malaysia.

"For Malaysians, self-quarantine at home is allowed. If there are cases, the Health Ministry will then place them at quarantine centres."

Ismail Sabri said the decision to allow international travel for Malaysians is to connect separated family members and loved ones.

"It is also for Malaysians who are heading overseas for working and business purposes."

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri advised Malaysians who are unvaccinated to quickly get the jab.

"Many of the announced relaxations, such as interstate, domestic and international travel as well as dining-in are all subject to the condition that one must be fully vaccinated," he said.