Malaysia is the latest Asian country to plan a reopening of its borders to international travellers.
Cambodia also plans to open up to international tourists in stages from today (Monday). Fully vaccinated travellers will only need to take a rapid test and wait for the results before being free to explore Cambodia.
Thailand opened to international, vaccinated travellers on November 1.
Specialist operator InsideAsia is preparing for travel to restart to the country as Malaysia’s National Recovery Council proposed that it will open its borders to foreign visitors by January 1 at the latest.
The announcement comes as the country recognises the need for inbound international tourism as essential to improve the country’s economic standing.
With 95% of the population now vaccinated, Malaysia last week announced the creation of a travel lane for vaccinated travellers between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
InsideAsia spokesperson James Mundy said: “Although it is unclear as to the terms of international travel at the moment, it is very reassuring that Malaysia is taking steps to open up again soon.”
The south-east and east Asia specialist operator added Malaysia to its portfolio for its 20th anniversary and was due to launch it in 2020 when the pandemic hit.
The operator has created ten new itineraries that cover Malaysia and Borneo with a focus on responsible and sustainable travel.
Mundy said: “With its blend of cultures and its share of Borneo, the destination is blessed with natural beauty, diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and indigenous communities. We are looking forward to sharing the country and culture with our clients and agent friends soon.
“Malaysia and Borneo slots in perfectly with our other destinations including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Singapore.
“We have had the in-house passion and knowledge on these places for years and now it is finally time to share that with our partners.
“It finally looks as though south-east Asia is beginning to open up and we cannot wait to design trips and get people travelling again soon.”