This post may contain affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
As the world continues to grapple with the fallout from the coronavirus, travelers are beginning to get restless.
For months now, countless vacationers, backpackers, and holidaymakers have put off their next trip as they await a safer time to travel when transmission of the COVID-19 virus is not so steady.
For any adventurers who have Malaysia atop their list of dream destinations, they will want to know all the latest information regarding the travel restrictions to Malaysia and when they might be able to book their flight to Kuala Lampur.
When the Chinese government began alerting the international community about a possible viral outbreak, Malaysian authorities took immediate action to stem the spread of the virus within their own borders.
In contrast to other countries, Malaysia crafted a coronavirus plan that included the hospitalization of all patients who had tested positive in one centralized area.
The country also opted to close its borders in March to all international travel, putting the travel plans for many on indefinite hold.
As a result of their efforts, the country was able to “re-open” a portion of its economic sectors quicker than countries in the global West.
Beginning on June 10th, that included the tourist industry, albeit in an extremely limited capacity.
The Malaysian government wished to allow travelers to return to Malaysia with the hope that the reintroduction of foreign travelers would help invigorate the economy.
Initially, only medical tourists from certain countries were able to cross the border.
As the situation regarding the pandemic continues to evolve, Malaysian tourism leaders officially extended the general closure of the border to visitors who are traveling to Malaysia strictly for tourism or pleasure.
That order is now set to expire at the end of the year.
However, before rushing to book an early flight, keep in mind that the government has the power to extend that restriction again.
Travel in a world that is still dominated by the virus does not resemble the previous freedoms that people had before the pandemic.
In fact, before packing a bag and heading to the airport, there is a lot more information that anyone interested in visiting Malaysia should consider.
Arriving in Malaysia: Will I need to Quarantine?
There is currently a compulsory quarantine for any travelers who are arriving in Malaysia.
The period for the quarantine is 14-days and applies to the majority of visitors who cross the border.
Some countries require only a recent negative test to enter the country, but even if an individual can prove that they do not have the COVID-19 disease, they will still be required to quarantine for two weeks.
The mandatory 14-day quarantine applies to most travelers who are entering Malaysia for any reason.
That includes everyone from Malaysian nationals who are living abroad and intend to visit family, to long-term Malaysian residency-permit holders.
Personal Restrictions Once Inside Malaysia
It is crucial to remember that each government has established its own set of rules and regulations regarding the personal freedoms and restrictions for their own countries.
In some cases, individual regions or cities have specific laws on how to deal with the spread of the virus.
Staying informed will help people avoid any issues when it comes to following guidelines in Malaysia.
The Malaysian government also offers a set of recommendations for how to conduct oneself to best avoid contracting or unknowingly spreading the virus.
This list includes advice such as:
- Frequently washing your hands and using hand sanitizer when it is available
- Wearing a mask when in public at all times
- Avoiding areas with large gatherings of people
- Recognizing symptoms and acting responsibly
How About Restaurants and Tourist Attractions?
It makes sense that anyone who is allowed into Malaysia will want to understand just how much of the country and culture they will be able to experience before shelling out large sums of money to arrange travel.
Beginning in May, there was a gradual re-opening of most tourist or cultural attractions and places of worship.
This included museums, such as the National Museum of Kuala Lumpur, as well as religious sites such as the Sri Maha Mariamman.
Due to the quick implementation of strict guidelines regarding social distancing and responsible behavior, restaurants and cafes were able to remain open at limited capacity.
They are expected to follow the government-sanctioned requirements for limiting the amount of contact that diners and restaurant staff had with one another.
Overall Impressions: Can I Visit Malaysia?
It may be tempting to grab your grittiest travel-pack and head to your nearest airport.
However, things are changing at such a rate that it is unclear when normalized travel will return.
In Malaysia, the government has had to take action.
With the above information in mind, it is not currently feasible for tourists to visit Malaysia.
Hopefully, that will all change in the coming year and visitors will once again be welcomed from all across the world. Maybe by using a luggage shipping service to spend less time at the airport
Author Bio:
Daniel Moore is an experienced content writer. He is associated with many renowned travel blogs as a guest author where he shares his valuable travel tips with the audience.