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The Special Committee on Pandemic Management has agreed to allow interstate travel and the reopening of tourism hotspots and islands once the country’s fully vaccinated rate of adults reaches 90%
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the 90% target can be achieved in two to three weeks.
“I believe many are eager to return to their hometowns and see their families after so long. I am confident that with these relaxations, we will be able to restore the country’s economic excellence soon,” he said on Facebook on Tuesday, 22 September.
Image via Bernama/New Straits Times
Meanwhile, beginning 1 October, Ismail Sabri said spas, wellness centres, and massage centres may resume operations
This is provided that all customers and operators have completed their vaccinations.
Meanwhile, tourist centres such as zoos, aquariums, snorkelling, dive centres, fishing tours, and ecoparks will also be allowed to operate under all phases of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) beginning 1 October, that is if all operators and visitors are fully vaccinated.
The prime minister added that sundry shops, mini markets, restaurants, petrol stations, and convenience stores will be allowed to operate from 6am to 12am starting today, 23 September.
Businesses are also now allowed to operate at 100% capacity, given that the employer and all employees are fully vaccinated.
In addition, he said all foreigners arriving at international gateways will have to bear the cost of RT-PCR testing, while for Malaysian citizens, it will be free.
Image via Reuters/CNA
Ismail Sabri hopes that the easing of these restrictions will be navigated responsibly by the people
“Adhere to every standard operating procedure set, wear a face mask, practise physical distancing, and always maintain personal hygiene and safety,” he said.
As of Wednesday, 22 September, 80.2% of all adults in Malaysia have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations. 93.2% have at least received their first dose.