BY: Michelle Liew
As we are all aware, the government has announced cross-state permissions for all Malaysians.
This news is very exciting to most Malaysians as we had faced strict travel restrictions for almost two years. Many of those who wish the head back to their hometown can now do so and finally be reunited with their family.
Not only that, but the government has also announced leniency for travelling abroad, provided that two doses of vaccine have been completed and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) that have been set must be strictly adhered to.
Despite that, we might need to put the bucket list down as we may not be able to travel to all countries. Due to the difference in means and efficiency in tackling the pandemic, only certain countries have opened up their borders to allow for tourists.
A Twitter user has taken the liberty to list down 10 countries that Malaysians are now able to travel to:
Iconic Tower Bridge connecting London with Southwark on the Thames River
- United Kingdom
You will need to get off at London airport as the Manchester transit not allowed. There is no need to quarantine but you have to do a Covid-19 test on the second day.
Green powerful bright aurora (polar lights) above igloo house in Finland
- Finland
As the first Scandinavian country in the list, news reports state that Finland will allow tourists from Malaysia starting October 25. Only those who have completed vaccination are allowed. You will also need to do a PCR test before departure and need to be quarantined.
Monument of Independence of Ukraine in Kiev, Ukraine
- Ukraine
If you want to go to Ukraine, you need to complete at least 1 dose of vaccine. In fact, you don’t have to quarantine 14 days. They also encourage you to download the VDOMA app. You must have travel insurance.
The Statue of Liberty and the Skyline of Manhattan, New York City, United States
- United States
Negative test must be done 3 days before departure. The country has a Strict Vissa Application. Flights from country of origin or transit in permitted countries only. (Quarantine info still can’t be confirmed).
Riyadh city towers in Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia now allows foreign entry but for the purpose of performing umrah only. This is provided you are fully vaccinated.
Visa application is required for tourists. Only those who got AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson vaccines are allowed. Furthermore, you will be given an additional booster.
Giza – Pyramids with Sphinx
- Egypt
Only those who have completed the full vaccine are allowed to enter. There is no need for quarantine. Negative PCR Test needs to be done 96 Hours before arriving in Egypt. However, you can be quarantined if there are symptoms when you get there.
The skyline of Doha city center, Qatar, after sunset
- Qatar
You will need to perform a PCR Test Negative 72 Hours before arrival. There is no need for self-quarantine. Individuals taking Sinopharm, Sinovac, Sputnik Vaccine vaccines need to take antibody serology before arriving in Qatar.
Colorful Icelandic houses in Stykkisholmur, a town situated in the western part of Iceland
- Iceland
As the second Scandinavian in the list, Iceland requires tourists to get the full vaccine and do the PCR Test. If you are found to be negative, there is no need for quarantine. Visas are required to be applied for and brought along to the Nordic Island.
View of old Mardin city, a popular city for locals and tourist, which is located in southeastern of Turkey
- Turkey
You need to apply for a visa first. PCR testing will be done upon arrival, and you do not need to quarantine. Complete vaccination is mandatory.
Maldives, the tropical paradise
- Maldives
You need to have a negative PCR Test. There is no need for self-quarantine. A PCR test is mandatory if you have any symptoms.
