PM: No Plans To Ban Tourists From China Despite Wuhan Coronavirus Cases

The rapid spread of Wuhan’s Coronavirus has reached our shores after it was discovered earlier today that three Chinese individuals have managed to enter Malaysia undetected by the scanners. They, however, are being treated at Hospital Sungai Buloh and their conditions are stable now. This has prompted some members of the public to demand the ban of Chinese tourists from setting foot in Malaysia, at least until the spread of the virus is under control.

Source: the star

However, it has been announced in a statement today (25 Jan) by the Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that Malaysia will not block any tourist from China even though the virus has made it to several countries globally thanks to Chinese tourists who landed in their countries.

As reported by Malay Mail, the government has already set up screening booths at all entry points into the country to ensure none of the tourists carrying the virus can get through.

But three of them got through undetected already. 

Dr Mahathir explained, as quoted by Malay Mail,

“We will not block (China’s tourists) but we will check them we will make sure. We are able to detect very early stages (of the virus) even if there is no increase in their temperature but there is evidence they suffer from this virus.”

Source: malay mail

He has also explained that the Coronavirus incident will also affect Visit Malaysia 2020 as the majority of tourists coming to Malaysia are  from China, but he applauded the Chinese government for taking preventive measures, including stopping their citizens from flying out of the country.

We just hope that the virus can be stopped in time before it becomes an epidemic in Malaysia. Whatever it is, the government should take extra initiative in preventing this from happening. Stay safe everyone.

Also read: AirAsia Allows Passengers To Change Flight Dates To Other Cities In China Without Additional Cost