The Inland Revenue Board says it would not be fair for unscrupulous people or those who fail to pay their taxes to be given the freedom to travel abroad without first paying their dues.

But MPN chairman Muhyiddin Yassin says Covid-19 tests must still be done before departure and upon arrival, in line with the health ministry's recommendations.

Though the island officially opened to visitors from China, New Zealand, Japan and a few other countries in mid-October, there have been no direct non-cargo flights since then.

The measure will take effect on Jan 8.

However, the eight countries will remain on a list of nations deemed as high-risk.

Many have lost their jobs in Malaysia and cannot find work in their own country.

Nagendran did everything within his power to ensure that he received a refund for the nearly RM5,000 he had spent on tickets after the flight was cancelled.

National Recovery Council chairman Muhyiddin Yassin says infection control measures will remain in place, with entry determined based on the situation in originating countries.

At airports and other US ports of entry, reunited relatives hugged as many met for the first time since the coronavirus swept the globe.

Many international flights are expected to operate close to full or full on Monday, with high passenger volume throughout the following weeks.

For now, only tourists from neighbouring New Zealand will be allowed into Australia, provided they are vaccinated.

Australians have been unable to travel abroad for more than 18 months without a government waiver, while thousands of fully vaccinated residents living abroad have been unable to return.