PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians travelling overseas who fall under one of seven categories no longer need to apply for permission to leave the country via MyTravelPass beginning Oct 1.

       The categories include students who were given a place in overseas universities and two persons accompanying them; students leaving the country to resume their studies and two persons accompanying them and students sitting for exams overseas and the two escorts.

       Immigration director-general Datuk Khairul Dzaimee Daud said those travelling abroad for emergency situations and critical illness also need not apply for permission to travel.

       "Those wanting to meet husbands or wives in another country are also given the exemption, provided that their marriage is registered overseas.

       "Individuals who are taking part in sporting events and championships, seminars and meetings as well as those participating in humanitarian missions need not apply to travel abroad beginning Oct 1," he said in a statement on Wednesday (Sept 29).

       Khairul Dzaimee said the exemption from having to seek permission to travel remains for Malaysian diplomats as well as foreign diplomats.

       "Travellers must ensure they have all the relevant documents for the purpose of their travel to show to immigration officers at the exit points," he said.

       On Sept 16, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein had asked the Immigration Department to review the categories of applications heading overseas that can be granted permission directly, without having to apply through MyTravelPass.

       He said the directive was issued by the National Security Council following the pandemic management special committee meeting, after taking into account public feedback and views on the MyTravelPass programme.