MUKAH: Last Tuesday, the National Rehabilitation Council (NRC) chaired by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin recommended that the government fully open the country’s international borders as early as March 1 and do away with compulsory quarantine.
Muhyiddin said the recommendation was an important step to support the country’s economic recovery by boosting tourism and attracting foreign investors.
However, as the pandemic is still going on, he said the reopening of the international borders should be planned carefully and executed well.
OLIVIA EGI JOHNSON
I think opening the country’s borders as early as March 1 without mandatory quarantine is too early. The issue needs to be evaluated to ensure that procedures such as health screening and requiring proof of complete vaccination status are done carefully. On the other hand, reopening is important to stimulate the economy via foreign direct investments (FDI) and tourism.
ALFRED MADANG RASLI
I think reopening the borders is the wise thing to do, Yes, we still have the pandemic to consider, but we have to revive the economy. Healthwise, I notice that many people are selfish; they don’t bother to wear face masks in public places. In addition, we now have new variants of the virus, which is troubling. Therefore, the authorities must act wisely to balance public health and the economy.
MOHAMMAD KHAIRUDDIN RUSHDI AYUPHAN
In my opinion, reopening our borders would help various sectors and quarters such as tourism and those involved in foreign investments. Many in tourism, for example, have lost their sources of income as a result of restrictions. In fact, some have gone bankrupt. Yet the increase in cases of Covid-19 and the threat of new variants should not be neglected as it affects public health. If the pandemic worsens, the government should reconsider closing the international borders again.
BARINA NANI
If the reopening of the country’s borders is necessary for the country’s economy and other reasons, for me it is not a problem. However, it needs careful planning and implementation especially the screening of tourists and other visitors.
