KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia has emerged among the top 10 destinations for Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year week following the communist state authorities’ decision to lift Covid-19 restrictions for its citizens.
According to CNBC, other countries listed include Japan, Thailand, South Korea, the United States, Singapore, Australia and the United Kingdom.
The remaining two destinations in the top 10 include Chinese-controlled Macau and Hong Kong.
It was also reported that searches for travel abroad in mainland China surged to a three-year high within 30 minutes of the policy change announcement, according to Trip.com Group.
On Monday, China’s National Health Commission announced that inbound travellers would no longer need to quarantine upon arrival on the mainland, ending a nearly three-year policy from January 8 onwards.
Chinese citizens, authorities said, will be allowed to resume travel, but failed to specify details on timing or process.
The Chinese government had banned its citizens from obtaining or renewing their passports in addition to leaving the country unless they had a clear reason, typically for business.
Chinese communities throughout the world are set to celebrate the Lunar New Year between January 21 and 27. – The Vibes, December 29, 2022