EXPATRIATES with professional working permits can now return to Malaysia without having to be quarantined but need to pass a Covid-19 test in their country of origin.

Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said expatriates coming from red zone countries, however, still have to undergo home quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Malaysia.

“Foreigners with the EP1 pass (professional visit pass) can enter without having to apply with the Immigration Department but they need to take a Covid-19 test before coming here.

“If they come from green zone countries, such as New Zealand, Singapore or Brunei, they do not have to be quarantined.

“But if they come from red zone countries, they have to be quarantined for 14 days at their home here,” the defence minister and National Security Council spokesman said today.

Malaysia is also allowing foreign professional technical workers to enter the country under conditions, including Covid-19 testing, he added.

“These are experts in a certain job, for example an expert in a particular machine or an expert in repairing ships, (jobs) in which our own people have no capabilities. These workers can enter, and usually, they stay for few days only.

“They must complete their work without mixing with others. They also need to apply for a visit pass and undergo Covid-19 test,” he added.

Malaysia’s borders have been closed to foreign visitors since the movement-control order (MCO) began on March 18. While expatriates and diplomats were allowed in, they had to undergo mandatory quarantine at government-approved centres or hotels. Restrictions are now being gradually relaxed as the country moves into the recovery MCO phase.

Another relaxation for foreigners is for those needing medical treatment in Malaysia, who only need to apply to the Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council, Ismail Sabri said.

“They can apply with the council and there is no need to check with Immigration.

“We also allow the patient to bring a partner to accompany them,” he added. – June 19, 2020.