Malaysia may announce decision on reopening of borders for green zone countries soon: MFA

Malaysians and Singaporeans may soon have a better idea about the reopening of Malaysia's borders, as its Minister of Foreign Affairs has announced that negotiations are ongoing.

In a Facebook post yesterday (6 July), Minister Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said these negotiations are on, especially on agreements in the Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) category, which includes Singapore, Brunei, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Australia in the green zone previously announced by Director-General of Health Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

This RGL was introduced to facilitate travel between these countries, either for official purposes or essential business; at the same time, a Periodic Commuting Agreement (PCA) will enable Singaporeans and Malaysians who are also long-term pass holders to return home periodically on a short-term basis.

In a separate statement cited by Bernama, which noted that the announcement could be made in August, Minister Hishammuddin said: "Through the discussions as well, Malaysia remains consistent on the importance of both nations reaching a consensus, particularly in terms of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and COVID-19 general health protocols.

"These are important to ensure the health and safety of citizens of both nations involved in the cross-border travel."

He also stressed that this reopening is not "something easily done", but instead requires "thorough and detailed preparations and good understanding between all nations involved."

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