PETALING JAYA: Despite tighter restrictions in the United Kingdom with the emergence of the Omicron variant, many Malaysians are sticking to their travel plans.

       Graphic artist S. Methiilan, 30, said he had been planning the trip for quite a while and had no intention of cancelling.

       “I believe there will be new variants popping up every now and then. I have my flight booked, itinerary planned and my family is waiting to see me, so I have decided to carry on with my trip but I will take extra precautions.

       “I will do a PCR test within 48 hours when I arrive in the UK and self-quarantine for two days.

       “I was told that I will have to log into a system and get tracked for 48 hours when I touch down in London,” he said.

       He, however, said that there will be some changes to his plans as the United Kingdom has made several different announcements due to the Omicron variant and several Christmas celebrations will be affected, and he would adjust according to the guidelines.

       Product manager Ian Ng, who is currently in the United Kingdom to look for accommodations before he moves to the country in March next year, also said he was not planning to change his schedule.

       Ng said he did a PCR test and isolated himself.

       “Since I tested negative, I was allowed to roam as usual. London is rather relaxed as no one is wearing masks on the street or indoors.

       “Scotland on the other hand is stricter on masking up and there is contact tracing at certain venues, similar to MySejahtera,” he said, adding that as a safeguard, he masks up at all times.

       The 32-year-old also said he was concerned about the standard operating procedures when he returns to Malaysia on Dec 18.

       “I believe I might have to be quarantined at a low risk Covid-19 centre or put on a digital tracker,” he said.

       Meanwhile, several travel agents noted that many had cancelled their international trips.

       “Due to the uncertain situation now, many travellers are taking a “wait-and-see” approach,” he said.

       On Dec 5, the UK government announced that travellers heading to the country will have to take a Covid-19 test before their departure in an effort to limit the spread of the virus.

       Under the tightened requirements, travellers who are 12 years old and above will be required to take a pre-departure test, a maximum of 48 hours before leaving.

       The current guidelines state that people only need to self-isolate until they test negative within two days of arriving.

       In England, face masks are mandatory for most indoor public venues as well as public transportation starting yesterday.