Non-issue for Malaysians traveling to Israel
MOHAMAD AMREEL IMAN ABD MALEK
SHAH ALAM - The entry of some Malaysian tourists into gazetted areas under Israeli territorial administration such as the Sea of Galilee and Jerusalem (Baitulmaqdis) is not an issue.
Association of Umrah and Hajj Travel Agencies (Papuh) President Datuk Seri Razali Mohd Sham said although Malaysians are not allowed to use their passports to enter the country, there were still other procedures that enables entry.
However, he said, Malaysians who want to visit areas in Israel must first apply to a travel agency operating in Amman, Jordan.
"They have to apply with a travel agency in Amman, Jordan and the agency will take care of everything starting from the visa," he said when contacted by Sinar on Thursday.
He said once approved, Malaysian tourists can visit any locations deemed interesting in the country.
He said it is estimated that 5,000 to 10,000 Malaysian tourists travel to the country on a yearly basis.
Razali added that although Malaysians usually enter Israel via Jordan, they can also use some direct flights to the country by using letters issued by agencies in Amman.
"Among those airlines is Ethiopian Airlines," he added.
