Malaysia: Authorities announce easing of COVID-19 measures from June 10 /update 22

Event

On Sunday, June 7, Malaysian authorities announced the easing of measures originally imposed to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Most social, economic, and religious activities will be permitted to resume, provided social distancing measures are respected. Water sports, entertainment outlets, and large gatherings will however remain prohibited. Inter-state travel will be allowed, with the exception of areas under local lockdowns, which are to be designated as being under 'enhanced movement control orders' (MCO). MCOs will be implemented in areas that see spikes in COVID-19 infections following the easing of restrictions.

International borders are to remain closed indefinitely, with some exceptions, and Malaysian immigration services have resumed operations by appointment only. Exceptions may be made for travelers entering under certain immigration rules, including foreign national spouses of Malaysian citizens. However, authorities advise to contact them for approval prior to traveling to the country. Foreign nationals may transit through the international terminals in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), but may not pass through immigration and will be required to stay airside.

As of Sunday, June 7, there have been 8322 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Malaysia, with 117 associated deaths. Further international spread of the virus is to be expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands. 
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.