Well, here’s some good news.

Working closely together

Malaysia and its neighbour Singapore are committed to recognising each other’s COVID-19 vaccine certificates so that it will be easier for citizens from both countries to cross the border.

According to a report by Bernama, this decision was mentioned in a joint statement released by Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and his visiting Singaporean counterpart Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

The statement said that both countries will continue to work hard at progressively restoring cross border travel for other groups of travellers, in addition to introducing the Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) and the Periodic Commuting Arrangement (PCA).

“The operational details of the Reciprocal Recognition of Vaccine Certificate between Malaysia and Singapore, including the detailed requirements, health protocols, and application process involved for entry and exit into Malaysia and Singapore will be further deliberated and finalised by both parties,” the news agency quoted the statement as saying.

Dr Balakrishnan, who is currently on a working visit to Malaysia, also mentioned in a press conference that cross-border travel between both countries for compassionate reasons will be allowed starting next month and the RGL travel arrangement with might resume from May onwards.

“This will allow those of us with family members on both sides to meet again, which will allow businesses to resume, hopefully allow safe tourism in due time, and we can look forward to a more busy causeway and airport,” he was quoted as saying.