I mean, I should have known that this would happen eventually but I’m still disappointed learning about it. Canadian authorities have announced that they recently caught two travellers from the U.S. for failing to comply with entry COVID-19 related requirements while travelling to Toronto.
The travellers provided false information related to proof of COVID-19 vaccination credentials as well as pre-departure tests. They have also failed to stay in government-authorised accommodations—which is a requirement for people who are not vaccinated, and carry out COVID-19 arrival tests.
Providing false information and/or documents to a Government of Canada official upon entry to Canada or making false statements is a serious offence and may result in fines and/or criminal charges.
The travellers received eight fines which adds up to USD 19,720 (RM83,326) each, but it could have been worse. According to Canadian authorities, more serious penalties can lead to six months in prison and/or USD 750,000 (RM3.1 million) in fines.
“The Government of Canada will continue to investigate incidents reported and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where it is warranted to protect the health of Canadians from the further spread of COVID-19 and its variants of concern,” said the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Since 5 July 2021, the Government of Canada lets fully vaccinated travellers enter Canada if they meet specific criterias. Fully vaccinated travellers who wish to be considered for eased quarantine and testing requirements must meet all criteria—including the electronic submission of their proof of vaccination documentation into ArriveCAN prior to arrival at the port of entry.
Presumably, the two travellers in question had to go through quite a lot to forge authentic-looking documents. It’s theoretically much easier to just get vaccinated and get tested. It’s also incredibly embarrassing to get caught red-handed like that.
As for Malaysians, the current proof of vaccination is the digital vaccine certificate under MySejahtera. All individuals in Malaysia vaccinated under the National Immunisation Programme, or through state governments or the private sector will get the same digital certificate.
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has hinted two weeks ago that fully vaccinated individuals may soon be able to dine-in and travel interdistrict. However, no announcement has been made so far about the loosened restrictions for fully vaccinated people. At the moment, domestic and international travel for leisure is still prohibited in Malaysia.
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