The authorities will only consider lifting the inter-district and interstate travel when close to 80 per cent of the population has been vaccinated for Covid-19, says Health Director-General, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham.

“Once 70% of the population have been vaccinated, we may then consider reopening borders,” he said.

The government decision to lift the travel ban on Dec 7 last year resulted in outbreaks in “green states”.

“We saw on Dec 7 when the government allowed interstate travel the infection spread to other states.

“Those who were from red zones travelled to green zones, such as Kedah, Terengganu and Kelantan,” said Dr Noor Hisham.

Meanwhile, Malaysia is in discussion with other nation to allow cross-border travel after reaching herd immunity.

“Countries are discussing if we can allow cross-border travel after we have reached herd immunity.

“We are also looking at whether those who have been vaccinated are still required to undergo quarantine when entering a country,” he added.

(source: NST)