KUALA LUMPUR: Having 90 per cent of the country's adult population fully inoculated before lifting the ban on interstate travel will create a safer environment for all.

Malaysian Medical Association former president Datuk Dr N.K.S. Tharmaseelan said while securing 90 per cent vaccination rate was an achievement itself, the move to allow interstate travel was timely as well.

"Being confined at home for such long periods would have long-term effects on the mental well-being of an individual.

"By having 90 per cent of the adult population vaccinated is a figure that would probably create a much safer environment to travel and (businesses to) open up. 

"Therefore, it is certainly reasonable and well-founded to allow interstate travel," he said when contacted.

Dr Tharmasselan was commenting on the government's announcement that the ban on interstate travel is expected to be lifted after 90 per cent of the country's adult population have been fully inoculated.

He added that Malaysians must continue following the standard operating procedures strictly after the reopening.

"It has to become a part of our daily routine even if they have received both of their vaccination doses."

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob in a statement said interstate travel and the reopening of other tourist destinations, irrespective of those located on islands or mainland, will be allowed after 90 per cent of the country's adult population have been fully inoculated.

Ismail Sabri, however, said the easing of such restrictions was also subjected to data and analysis conducted by the Health Ministry.

The nationwide interstate travel ban took place starting Jan 13, following an increase in Covid-19 cases.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/09/730991/wise-wait-90-cent-adult-vaccination-rate-allowing-interstate-travel