Travel curbs over Omicron concerns
8 December 2021
Around the world, the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases exceeds 266 million. Across Asia, nations are battling with the virus and rolling out vaccines. At the Asia Media Centre, we're helping you keep track of what's happening with a roundup of media coverage from across the region.
Vaccination rollout around the world and in Asia:
Source: ourworldindata.org
India
The Hindu: With Omicron, third wave projected to hit India by February, but may be milder than second
The Deccan Herald: 85 percent of India's eligible population administered first dose of Covid-19 vaccine: Union Health Minister
Thailand
Bangkok Post: Sinovac becomes Indonesia's most sought-after vaccine
The Nation: Government beefs up border security as it keeps hawk's eye on Omicron variant
Indonesia
The Jakarta Globe: Indonesia, India seek to establish travel lane for vaccinated travelers
Antara: Police step up anticipatory measures against potential Covid wave
Indonesia and India are discussing the possibility of a travel lane between the two countries. India is currently one of 19 countries whose tourists can visit Bali. Photo by Maria Tyutina (https://www.pexels.com/@mtyutina?utm_content=attributionCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pexels) from Pexels (https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-gray-airplane-249581/?utm_content=attributionCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pexels)
Singapore
Channel News Asia: Singapore's financial system resilient but must stay prudent amid 'considerable uncertainty' from Covid-19
Today: For youths, will pragmatism or passion rule as Covid-19 gives pause to rethink life's priorities?
China
Sixth Tone: Virus surge in border areas drive China's Covid-19 outbreak
Xinhua: Emergence of Omicron vindicates China's approach on Covid-19 prevention: Bloomberg
South Korea
The Korea Herald: Korea sticking to plan to expand 'vaccine pass' to youths
The Chosun Ilbo: Korea tightens travel curbs over Omicron panic
Despite some hiccups, the Korean government will go forward with its plan to implement a “vaccine pass” system for school pupils aged 12 to 18 from February. Photo by MChe Lee (https://unsplash.com/@mclee?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText) on Unsplash (https://unsplash.com/s/photos/classroom?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText)
Japan
The Japan News: Survey: 89 percent support government response to omicron
The Mainichi: Japan cautiously enters year-end party season amid Omicron concerns
Philippines
Philippine Star: Vaccine makers apply for booster authorisation in Philippines
Rappler: Philippines vaccinates nearly 10 million during national vax drive - Department of Health
Vietnam
Viet Nam News: Vietnam ready to assist Laos in fight against Covid-19: PM
SGGP Online: Ho Chi Minh City to promote tourism in international markets
Malaysia
New Straits Times: Rising number of cases at educational institutes
Malaysiakini: Ministry of Health: Omicron has reached Malaysia
