[UPDATED] MoH lists no entry for visitors of 7 African countries

KUALA LUMPUR – Effective tomorrow, those with a history of travel to South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe in the last 14 days are not permitted to enter Malaysia.

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin in a press conference said Malaysian citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders are allowed to enter the country, but must observe a mandatory 14-day quarantine at designated quarantine centres.

As of today, Malaysia has not recorded any cases of the emerging B.1.1.529 strain that was detected in South Africa.

However, screening samples will be taken from inbound travellers of the seven countries for genomic survey.

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry said in a statement South Africa has detected 77 cases with the B.1.1.529 strain so far, while Botswana has four, and Hong Kong (two).

“The first case was reported in Botswana on November 11, while South Africa had its first on November 14, and Hong Kong on November 25. The patient in Hong Kong previously travelled to South Africa.”

Neighbouring Singapore will restrict arrivals from the same seven African countries, health officials said today.

All non-Singaporeans and people without permanent residency in the city-state who have recent travel history to the seven countries will be barred from entering or transiting through Singapore, its Health Ministry said. 

The new restrictions, which will take effect from Sunday, apply to South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

Singapore citizens – and foreigners holding permanent resident status in the city-state of 5.5 million – arriving from those countries can still enter, but will have to undergo a 10-day quarantine. 

Singapore currently has no cases of the new variant.

Scientists in South Africa yesterday announced the discovery of the B.1.1.529 variant, and are blaming it for a surge in infections. – The Vibes, November 26, 2021