If you’re planning a trip to Southeast Asia, you might be wondering if Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital city of Malaysia, is open for tourism. The short answer is yes, but there are some restrictions and precautions in place that you should be aware of before you go.
Travel Restrictions
First and foremost, it’s important to note that Malaysia has closed its borders to tourists from countries with more than 150,000 COVID-19 cases. At the time of writing, this includes countries such as the United States, Brazil, India, and Russia. However, if you’re coming from a country with fewer cases or have been in Malaysia for at least 14 days prior to your arrival in Kuala Lumpur, you should be able to enter the country.
Entry Requirements
To enter Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur specifically, you’ll need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within three days of your departure. You’ll also need to undergo a health screening upon arrival at the airport and quarantine for 14 days at a government-designated facility.
What’s Open?
Many of Kuala Lumpur’s popular tourist attractions are open with limited capacity and strict safety measures in place. This includes landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Batu Caves as well as shopping destinations like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Suria KLCC.
Restaurants and cafes are also open but may have reduced hours or limited seating options. It’s worth noting that alcohol sales are currently prohibited in restaurants after 10 PM.
Precautions to Take
While traveling during a pandemic can be daunting, there are steps you can take to stay safe while visiting Kuala Lumpur. Be sure to wear a mask in public areas and practice social distancing whenever possible. Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
It’s also a good idea to check with individual businesses or attractions before you go to confirm their hours and any safety protocols they have in place.
Conclusion
In summary, Kuala Lumpur is open for tourism but with some restrictions and precautions in place. As always, it’s important to stay vigilant and take steps to protect yourself and others during your travels. With proper planning and care, you can still enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.