SIBU: The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has tightened the regulations for the entry of people into the state following news reports on the new Covid -19 B.1.1.529 variant (Omicron) in other countries as well a press statement by the Health Minister on Friday (Nov 26).

       SDMC said, in a statement on Sunday (Nov 28), that all foreign nationals with a travel history within 14 days to Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter Sarawak for the time being.

       However, Malaysian citizens and permanent resident pass holders returning to Malaysia from such countries are allowed to enter Sarawak but must fulfill the following conditions:

       1. Apply via the EnterSarawak system;

       2. Undergo mandatory quarantine for 14 days at designated quarantine stations at the first point of entry into Malaysia, regardless of vaccination status;

       3. Home quarantine is NOT allowed;

       4. Transit to other destinations is NOT allowed until the quarantine period is complete;

       5. Negative RT-PCR swab test result on the 12th day of quarantine before being allowed to be releases; and

       6. Travelers from abroad must report their travel history to

       officers at the airport.

       Failure to adhere to the conditions may result in legal action, SDMC said in its statement.

       It added that these instructions are effective immediately.