MALAYSIANS working in Singapore and Thailand cannot enter the countries starting tomorrow, when Putrajaya’s two-week movement-control order begins.

Director-General of Immigration Khairul Dzaimee Daud confirmed the matter when asked about it after Putrajaya last night announced the order, which, among others, bans Malaysians from travelling abroad and restricts foreigners’ entry into the country.

“The order (for) Malaysians not to leave the country, as announced by the prime minister, includes those who commute to work in Singapore and Thailand, effective March 18 until 31,” he said in a message to The Malaysian Insight.

The directive, aimed at halting the spread of Covid-19, also requires non-essential businesses to shut down, and schools and tertiary education institutions to close.

The travel restriction on Malaysians impacts thousands who live in Johor and work in Singapore.

Earlier today, it was reported that Singaporean Trade and Industry Minister Chan Chun Sing said government agencies and trade associations stand ready to help companies in the republic provide temporary accommodation for their Malaysian workers.

He gave the assurance following concern among Singaporeans about the implications of Malaysia’s decision to enforce the movement-control order. – March 17, 2020.