THE Consulate-General of Malaysia in Hong Kong announced late Saturday night that the Malaysian government had decided to temporarily suspend the imposition of visa requirements to passport holders of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as of March 12.

However, Hong Kong visitors to Malaysia are required to go through medical screening at the point of entry in Malaysia, according to the consulate-general.

The travel restriction was imposed April 8.

Previously, people holding a passport of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region enjoyed 30-day visa-free entry into Malaysia.

Meanwhile, China has temporarily suspended tours to the SARS-afflicted countries of Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, the Daily Sunshine reported Sunday.

According to a notice issued Friday by Chinese Tourist Bureau, no tourist agencies will be allowed to organize tourist groups to the three countries. The move is aimed at ensuring the safety of Chinese tourists.