No change in SOPs for foreign tourist arrivals

The SOPs for the entry of foreign tourists at international entry points will remain unchanged, says Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

He said any decision regarding new SOPs would only be made based on the latest Covid-19 data.

He added that the SOPs imposed on tourists arriving in Malaysia, including from China, were the same as those for arrivals from other countries.

"Of course, it’s not wise to be selective and I feel it’s not right for us to take that stance," he told reporters after observing the operations at KLIA in Sepang yesterday.

However, he said the government would not comprise on the importance of protecting the safety of the people from any health threats, including the Covid-19 pandemic.
 
On Jan 4, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia would not discriminate against any country in conducting COvid-19 checks on travellers entering the country, as its priority was the people’s health and safety.

Anwar added that the immigration department had tightened controls at the country’s entry points to monitor the entry of foreigners into Malaysia.

Saifuddin said tourists found to be suffering from fever would be taken to a special corner to be examined by the doctor on duty.

"If the body temperature is 37 degrees Celcius, they will place (the tourists) at a specific point for observation. If they continue to show signs of being positive (for Covid-19)… they will be taken to Hospital Sungai Buloh," he said.