[Pandemic] 2 [Malaysia MCO: 16 FAQs]

Let’s stay calm and fight COVID-19 together. In response to the impact of the novel coronavirus, Malaysia announced a “Movement Control Order” from March 18 to March 31, effective from 10:00 PM on March 16 (11:00 PM Japan Time). In short, this order prohibits foreigners from entering the country and prevents Malaysian citizens from leaving.

It seems like there’s a mix of information and some confusion, but let’s stay calm and verify the credibility of the information as we take action.

The following information is from March 17, 2020 (Tuesday).

[Malaysia Movement Control Order: 16 Frequently Asked Questions]

[The National Security Council responded on March 17, 2020]

1: Are celebratory events, such as weddings and festivals, permitted?

A: The wedding will be held without any gathering. Otherwise, it will be postponed.

2: Between March 18, 2020, and March 31, 2020, did the Movement Control Order specify particular execution times?

A: No, there is no specific execution time. The execution period is from March 18, 2020, to March 31, 2020.

3: If I run out of consumables, can I go buy more?

A: Yes, you’re allowed to go shopping.

4: I am a Malaysian citizen, and my husband is a British citizen. Can I return to Malaysia during this period?

A: As long as you can prove the legality of your marriage either through the Malaysian government or in your home country, you can return to Malaysia. Upon returning, the couple must undergo self-isolation for diagnostic purposes.

5: My son is studying abroad and is currently overseas. Can he return to Malaysia?

A: During this period, any Malaysian abroad can return to the country, provided they undergo self-assessment, isolate, and complete a health check.

6: I hold a Malaysia Long Term Visa and returned to my home country before this travel restriction order was issued. Am I allowed to return to Malaysia for work during the restricted period?

A: During this period, only foreign migrants working in essential government services are permitted to return to Malaysia. Foreign migrants must obtain a confirmation letter from their respective employers and submit it to the Malaysian Immigration Department.

7: I work in Singapore but live in Malaysia. Can I return to Malaysia?

A: No, it is not possible. This applies to movement control orders. Based on regional safety considerations, individuals residing in Malaysia are not permitted to work in neighboring countries. Please inform your employer of this matter.

8: I’ve planned and paid for my trip in Malaysia, but can I still go?

A: According to the behavioral control orders, the general public is prohibited from moving freely, including engaging in social activities. Since travel planning is not a national priority, we recommend canceling your travel plans.

9: Can you pick up friends or relatives who have just returned from overseas at the airport by car?

A: According to the behavioral control instructions, you are required to complete your errands quickly and easily.

10: Is a school transfer required?

A: No, it’s not required.

11: Do courses and all activities, including those at public and private skills training institutions, fall under the Control of Movement Order?

A: Yes.

12: What about students living in public university dormitories, especially international students?

A: During this period, international students are advised to return to their home countries. Foreign students who have decided to remain in Malaysia and reside in university dormitories must report to the dormitory management and comply with the law.

13: Are fast-food restaurants and hawker centres open?

A: Yes, but only for takeout. We recommend using specific delivery services like GrabFood or FoodPanda.

14: Can I use public transportation such as buses, LRT, MRT, and KTM?

A: All public transportation services are available for use.

15: I paid for my hotel stay before the travel advisory was issued. Can I request a refund?

A: We recommend contacting the hotel directly to negotiate a cancellation or refund.

16: If a relative has passed away (not a COVID-19 patient), am I allowed to attend the funeral?

A: We recommend that only the closest relatives attend, or that you entrust the arrangements to the funeral home.

Updates will continue.

Reference: [Malaysian Government’s Announcement on Movement Control Order | Embassy of Japan in Malaysia]