Malaysia tourism operators want border to open for vaccinated Singapore travellers
Several Malaysia tourism trade groups are calling for the government to allow vaccinated Singapore travellers to enter the country quarantine-free.
The two countries should start discussing quarantine-free travel now as Singapore ramps up its vaccination program.
"This is important for both countries as we are highly dependent on each other and starting such discussions early would be helpful in the speedy recovery of the economy after the pandemic," said Malaysia Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong.
"The decision may not have to be made immediately, but there should at least be some form of preliminary discussion."
The Johor state chapter of the Malaysian Association of Hotels also called for talks now.
"Starting this discussion will not only give us a better chance of recovering after the pandemic, but will also give industry players a glimpse of hope," said MAH Johor chairman Ivan Teo.
"Instead of giving incentives and cash handouts, which would not last long, we prefer the government provide us with effective long-term recovery plans and solutions."
"Allowing vaccinated travellers from Singapore to enter the country without having to go through quarantine is one of the key ways, and discussions should start immediately," Teo added.
Singapore expects to have sufficient Covid-19 vaccine doses for all the population by the second half of 2021.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Editor
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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