PENANG has stopped medical tourists from coming in following a spike in Covid-19 infections in the state, said chief minister Chow Kon Yeow.

In a statement, Chow said the state will inform the Health Ministry and National Security Council of its decision.

“I will hold an emergency meeting with all relevant agencies today and make a final decision on this issue.”

Penang has recorded seven positive Covid-19 cases, since last Friday, ending the state’s three-month “green” status.

All the cases were linked to Kedah’s Sivagangga and Tawar clusters, and Perak’s Kurau cluster.

Chow drew fire over reports that Indonesian medical tourists were flown into the state last Friday.

“The state government was not informed regarding the arrival of three patients from Indonesia to a private hospital here.

“I was later informed that the patients had complied with all standard operating procedures fixed by the relevant authorities, including the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council and the Immigration Department.” – August 17, 2020.