The Star reported that
Malaysia has relaxed restrictions for religious visits to Israel, lifting the quota on the number of pilgrims and allowing travel to anyone for up to 21 days at a time.
According a letter issued by the Prime Minister's Office to the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) on Nov 28, Christians can also, among others, visit Israel as many times as they want as well as travel anywhere, subject to approval from the authorities there.
Previously, pilgrimages to Israel were limited to 700 Malaysians each year, with only 40 from one church and a stay of only up to 10 days at a time.
The pilgrims, who must be at least 18 years old, were also not allowed to visit Israel more than once in three years.
There are now no more quotas for those travelling for religious purposes to Israel.
A 10-day visit to Israel could cost between RM8,000 and RM12,000.
Malaysia has no diplomatic relations with Israel.
A friend who is using the 1000 Places To See Before You Die book as a guide to his travels would be glad to know about this news. Have you been to Israel? Share with us your experience.
Source: The Star..Government relaxes Israel travel ban
What about free thinker like Bananaz? Can go or not?
ReplyDeleteThat means our new passport will not have Israel stated. Hm on second thoughts why at this time of the year for this announcement? You're thinking what my heart's thinking? haha
ReplyDelete10day trip cost RM8-RM10k cheaper than going Bhutan. Shall have to wait till sunny days first money need to dry faster after printing.
ReplyDeleteSorry did'nt spot the small print in the Star "..Christians can also, among others, visit Israel as many times as they want.." The word "among others" means everybody even those without religion I presume? Went for a medical check up required by my new employer in one hospital in Penang long time ago. I was asked to fill in the column under 'religion' by the counter staff and when I said none, she sort of mouth opened wide in disbelief with eyes popping out thinking I am an alien or some kind of nuts.
ReplyDeletelast week I met a Chinese (from China) friend..
ReplyDeletehe say that he visited Israel and it is a very nice country
yeah, that is indeed a happy news to all of us.. but i wonder if a non-christian like me can visit Israel under this amended policy??
ReplyDeletehmmmm, but then before i visit Israel, i think there are still a lot other countries that I wish I can go first.. never mind, that means there will be more time to let this country be one that we can visit without any limitations.. :p
DeleteSo if not for religious reasons, cannot go?
ReplyDelete