As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread, countries around the world are taking measures to curb the spread of the virus. Malaysia and China are no exception, and the two countries have recently implemented new travel restrictions for citizens and visitors of the other country.
The Malaysian government has announced that all Chinese citizens, including those holding valid long-term visas, will be barred from entering Malaysia, with some exceptions for business travelers, diplomatic and official passport holders. This restriction also applies to foreign nationals who have been in China in the last 14 days. The move comes amid increasing concerns of the new variant of COVID-19 which has been identified in Malaysia and believed to have originated in China.
The Chinese government, for its part, has also implemented new travel restrictions for Malaysian citizens. Chinese authorities now require all Malaysian citizens entering China to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure, as well as a health declaration form. Additionally, all travelers will be subject to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in China.
These new restrictions will have a significant impact on the relationship between Malaysia and China, which has been strong in recent years. China is one of Malaysia’s major trading partners, and the new restrictions will likely lead to a decline in trade between the two countries. Additionally, thousands of Malaysian citizens travel to China every year for business and tourism, and the new restrictions will make it much more difficult for them to do so.
The Malaysian government has stated that the new restrictions are necessary to protect public health and prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, many Malaysian citizens and businesses feel that the restrictions are excessive and will have a detrimental impact on their lives and livelihoods.
Despite these restrictions, Malaysian citizens who still wish to travel to China will have to comply with the new measures, and plan accordingly. It’s important for Malaysian citizens to stay informed about the latest developments and to be prepared for any changes in the restrictions.
In conclusion, the new travel restrictions for Malaysian citizens visiting China and Chinese citizens visiting Malaysia is a necessary measure to protect public health, but it also brings about significant challenges for citizens and businesses of both countries. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important for all citizens to stay informed and adapt to the new reality, while also looking for ways to mitigate the impact of the restrictions on trade and people-to-people exchanges, while still protecting public health.