The Ministry of Health has revealed that Malaysia will be reducing the mandatory quarantine period for incoming travelers from abroad as well as for confirmed close contacts. The mandatory 14-day observation period will be shortened to 10 days with effect from today, 14th December 2020.

According to the ministry, the decision was made after studying the current COVID-19 situation as well as clinical reports from around the world. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and Belgium have also reduced their quarantine period from 14 days to 10 days. Meanwhile, France has reduced its quarantine period to just 7 days.

It added that based on clinical scientific evidence, the risk of post-quarantine infection will reduce over the quarantine period. The highest risk is during the first week after exposure.

The reduced 10-day mandatory quarantine in Malaysia will be applicable to both incoming travelers from overseas as well as for individuals identified as close contacts of COVID-19 positive cases. The quarantine orders must be carried out at either designated quarantine centres or at home.

Malaysia currently has a total of 83,475 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 415 deaths reported so far. The majority of cases are transmitted locally and international travel is still not allowed.

It’s worth pointing out that the Sarawak state government still requires a 14-day mandatory quarantine at designated centres for all incoming visitors including Malaysians residing in West Malaysia. The state has also imposed a ban on non-Sarawakians entering the state from Sabah and Labuan until further notice.