COMMENT | The new wave of Covid-19 infections has seen Malaysia close its borders to all but its citizens and long-term residents until Dec 31, 2020.

The recent discovery of a more contagious mutation of the virus in the United Kingdom raises new concerns about opening borders. Air travel in the rest of Asean also remains highly restrictive, especially compared to most other regions.

With a Covid-19 vaccine on the horizon, should Malaysia and other Asean countries wait before opening borders? Waiting could end up being costly because turning vaccines into vaccinations to achieve herd immunity will take time.

Reaching herd immunity may be required before allowing quarantine-free travel because those vaccinated may still be infectious, despite being immune from the disease. Even those vaccinated may pass on the infection to those who have not, who are susceptible to the disease.

The wait for the vaccine may be over, but Malaysia or Asean cannot afford to wait for it to work before opening borders...