While neighboring countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong have recently reported surges in COVID-19 cases in May 2025, Malaysia’s Health Ministry has confirmed that the situation within the country remains well below the alert level, providing reassurance to travelers and residents alike.
Current COVID-19 Statistics in Malaysia
As of May 20, 2025, Malaysia’s official Health Ministry website reported a total of over 11,000 COVID-19 cases recorded this year. Encouragingly, the trend has been steadily declining since the beginning of the year.
Hospital admissions related to COVID-19 have also seen a notable decrease in recent weeks. The 7-day average of new admissions dropped to 37 by mid-May, compared to 45 in late April 2025.
Malaysia’s COVID-19 Situation
As of May 20, 2025, Malaysia’s COVID-19 situation remains under control, with the Health Ministry reporting a total of 11,727 cases from Epidemiological Week (EW) 1 to EW19 this year. This marks a continuous downward trend since the start of 2025 .
Regional and Global Context
SingaporeIn contrast, Singapore has experienced a 28% increase in COVID-19 cases in early May 2025, signaling a concerning uptick in the region.
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Bi-weekly COVID-19 Situation Update, published on May 9, 2025, highlighted that eight countries and areas in the Western Pacific Region reported an average COVID-19 positivity rate of 8.1%. The dominant circulating variants in the region were identified as JN.1 (51.3%) and B.1.1.529 (48.3%).
Meanwhile, in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported as of May 13, 2025, that COVID-19 infections were growing or likely to grow in 2 states, declining or likely declining in 30 states, and stable in 14 states.
Health Recommendations for Travelers
From a disease prevention standpoint, Malaysian health authorities, WHO, and the U.S. CDC collectively recommend that individuals at higher risk—such as the elderly, immunocompromised, or those with underlying health conditions—consult healthcare providers about vaccination and booster options prior to travel.
Source: Vax-Before-Travel News
Travel Advice for Malaysia Amid COVID-19
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with official announcements from Malaysia’s Ministry of Health and your home country’s health authorities before traveling.
- Vaccination: Ensure you are fully vaccinated and consider booster doses if you belong to an at-risk group (elderly, immunocompromised, or with chronic conditions).
- Health Precautions: Continue practicing good hygiene—wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, use hand sanitizer regularly, and maintain social distancing where possible.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related health expenses.
- Symptom Monitoring: Monitor your health before and during travel. If you experience symptoms related to COVID-19, seek medical advice promptly and avoid travel.
- Entry Requirements: Check Malaysia’s latest entry and quarantine requirements, as rules can change based on the pandemic situation.
- Respect Local Guidelines: Follow local COVID-19 protocols and respect community safety measures during your stay.
By following these guidelines, you can help protect yourself and others while enjoying a safe travel experience in Malaysia.
Travelers planning trips to or from Malaysia should stay informed on the latest health advisories and continue to practice recommended safety measures to ensure a safe journey.
