For those returning back to the country from either their holiday or studies will now have to bear the cost of testing at the airports. This notice takes immediate effect.

Security Council Senior Minister, Datuk Sabri Ismail Yaakob announced this in his daily press briefing on the country’s managing of Covid-19. In the past all citizens returning have to go through mandatory testing which the government offered, but this will no longer be viable with the opening border and travels.

Both foreign travelers returning will also be subjected to charges with immediate effect, for those who are tested positive and require quarantine, the accommodation has to be borne by themselves. Malaysia has been generous in the past, by providing hotel rooms with meals for those travelling back, housing tens of thousands during the two month period. The exercise cost taxpayers hundreds of millions with only 1% detected with Covid-19, this allowed the government to move into paid model. Exception is however given to students, civil servants and the disabled.

No indication has been given on the price of each tests, but on an average clinics and hospitals charge anything between RM400-RM600.