Everything You Need to Know About Traveling from Singapore to Malaysia in 2023

The twin towers in Malaysia

Since the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, Malaysia’s Vaccinated Travel Framework (VTF) is no longer in effect. Instead, foreign visitors to the country will have to complete a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days prior to their arrival each time they enter this beautiful country.

Singapore and Malaysia see a huge number of tourists traveling between the two countries every year as they’re neighboring countries. If you’re also planning your trip from Singapore to Malaysia and wondering how you should prepare yourself, you’ve come to the right place!

In this Pacific Prime CXA article, we’ll walk you through the travel rules and regulations to help you plan for a smooth and worry-free trip to Malaysia from Singapore.

Travel Requirements for Travelers

Just like the rest of the world, Singapore and Malaysia had travel restrictions placed because of COVID-19. Travelers to both countries had to follow the Vaccinated Travel Framework (TVF), a set of rules that determines whether a visitor can enter the countries and if they should quarantine or not.

The good news is the TVF is no longer in effect. From August 2022, all travelers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and aren’t required to quarantine or test for COVID-19 pre-departure or on arrival. Singapore also lifted the restrictions in February 2023.

COVID-19 Restrictions in Malaysia 

Malaysia has dropped the mandatory mask requirement for both outdoor and indoor areas, and attractions or facilities are no longer required to limit the numbers of visitors allowed.

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With the recent rise in COVID-19 cases, however, we suggest that you wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and sanitize your hands often to avoid catching the coronavirus or COVID-19 reinfection.

A businessperson looking at their phone while wearing a mask in an airport

Download the MySejahtera Application

Although COVID-19 isn’t a major global concern anymore, the virus itself can still be harmful to your body upon contact. To ensure that you and those around you aren’t at risk of infections, you can download the MySejahtera application before or after arrival to Malaysia.

MySejahtera is a mobile application by the Government of Malaysia used  to indicate a traveler’s COVID-19 risk status while staying in Malaysia. In some places, the COVID-19 risk status in MySejahtera may be checked upon entering premises.

Travel Insurance is Optional

While travelers are no longer required to buy mandatory travel insurance, it’s a good idea to secure travel insurance for you and your loved ones. Travel insurance will cover your expenses for any unforeseen illness or accidents, including medical expenses from COVID-19 infections,  during the trip.

If you are unsure about where to start or which type of travel insurance to purchase, get in touch with a Pacific Prime CXA for a free quote.

A night view of Malaysia's skyline

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

Starting from 2023, all foreign travelers visiting Malaysia must submit Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before arriving in the country and present it to the immigration upon arrival. This will provide the Malaysian government personal and traveling information of the traveler.

The groups of people that are exempted from submitting MDAC are as follows:

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Singapore citizens
Diplomatic and Official Passport holders 
Malaysian permanent residents (PR) and Long-Term Pass holders 
Brunei Common Certificate of Identification (GCI) holders 
Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility holders  
Thailand Border Pass holders 
Indonesian Cross Border Pass (PLB) holders 

Secure Travel Insurance with Pacific Prime

Whether you are traveling to Singapore or any other country, securing travel insurance will ensure financial security when you require medical assistance in a foreign country. For instance, emergency medical evacuation to your home country can be incredibly pricey.

Finding the right travel insurance can be challenging and confusing. Luckily, Pacific Prime CXA’s insurance experts will help you find a plan that meets your requirements and budget.

So, get in touch with Pacific Prime CXA for impartial advice and plan comparison today!

Natthachamon Natthachamon Suthana Komalrachun is a Content Writer with a strong passion in creative writing and marketing communications. Working with the team of experienced creators at Pacific Prime, she aims to use the magic of communication to simplify insurance and enchant every reader in our diverse society where insurance and employee benefits act as a life and financial stronghold for everyone—individuals and businesses alike.

After graduating at the top of her class and earning her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Thammasat University, Natthachamon has been practicing her writing skills and making education more easily accessible for Thai children as an Educational Content Creator and English Curriculum Developer for various educational facilities and organizations across the country.

Natthachamon is also a mother of two cats, a board game enthusiast, and a big bookworm who enjoys everything and anything sweet.

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