Malaysia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food, it attracts millions of visitors every year. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Malaysian government had to shut down its visa system. This has left many people wondering when Malaysia will reopen its visa system. In this article, we will explore the current situation and provide information on when Malaysia will reopen its visa system.
Overview of the Current Situation
Malaysia closed its borders on March 18, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the government has been taking measures to control the spread of the virus. As a result, the visa system has been suspended for all foreign nationals.
Currently, only a few categories of travelers are allowed to enter Malaysia. These include Malaysian citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders. Foreigners with special approvals from the Malaysian government are also allowed to enter the country.
However, tourists are not yet allowed to enter Malaysia. The Malaysian government has not announced any specific date for the reopening of the visa system for tourists.
Factors Affecting the Reopening of the Visa System
Several factors are affecting the Malaysian government’s decision to reopen the visa system. These include:
The COVID-19 Situation in Malaysia
Malaysia has been successful in controlling the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The country has reported a low number of cases and deaths compared to other countries. However, there have been some recent outbreaks in certain areas, causing concern for the government.
The COVID-19 Situation in Other Countries
The Malaysian government has to consider the COVID-19 situation in other countries before reopening its visa system. The government wants to ensure that the country is not at risk of importing new cases.
Economic Considerations
The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the Malaysian economy. The government is aware of the impact of the visa suspension on the industry and is considering how to safely reopen the visa system to tourists.
When Will Malaysia Reopen Its Visa System?
As of now, the Malaysian government has not announced a specific date for the reopening of the visa system. However, there are some indications that the government is considering a phased approach to reopening the visa system.
In July 2020, Malaysia introduced a travel bubble scheme with Singapore. Under this scheme, travelers can move between the two countries without having to quarantine for 14 days. The travel bubble has been successful so far, and the Malaysian government may consider expanding it to other countries in the future.
In September 2020, the Malaysian government announced that it would allow medical tourists to enter the country. This is a positive sign that the government is considering reopening its visa system to other categories of travelers soon.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the global tourism industry, and Malaysia’s visa system is no exception. While the Malaysian government has not announced a specific date for the reopening of the visa system, it is clear that they are considering a phased approach to reopening. The government is balancing the need to control the spread of the virus with the need to support the tourism industry. As always, travelers should stay informed and be patient while waiting for Malaysia to reopen its visa system.
