Malaysia will likely open its borders to international visitors in January.
A government advisory council, chaired by former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, says it’s now time to plan for reopening.
He said the tourism industry needs foreign visitors for a real recovery.
Additionally, infection rates have declined as vaccination rates increase.
More than three-quarters of population are vaccinated.
Muhyiddin said the requirement for Covid testing will continue while additional curbs may be imposed on certain countries.
"Taking into account the good vaccination level of the country, today the National Recovery Council has decided that the country’s borders should be opened to international visitors by January 1, 2022," Muhyiddin said.
No firm date has been disclosed as government officials are still discussing a timeline.
Border closure has led to lost tourism revenue of about RM90 billion (US$21 billion).
