Experts Warn: Many Southeast Asian Countries Are Eager To Open The Door Risk Is High

Experts warn: Many Southeast Asian countries are eager to "open the door" risk is high

According to reports, after months of blockade, some countries in Southeast Asia are abandoning the "zero new crown" policy and are exploring a way to coexist with the new crown virus. However, experts warn that it may be too early to do so.

The report said that the new crown raged in the area this summer, driven by the highly contagious delta strain. Now, the governments of Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam are seeking to reopen borders and public spaces to revive the economy—especially the vital tourism industry. But experts worry that low vaccination rates in most parts of Southeast Asia could lead to a disaster.

Huang Yanzhong, a senior researcher on global health issues at the American Institute of Foreign Affairs, said that if the region's vaccination rate is insufficient before restrictions are lifted, Southeast Asia's medical system may soon be overwhelmed.

The report pointed out that for the majority of the public and many leaders in the region, there seems to be no other choice. Vaccines are in short supply, and mass vaccination will not be possible in the coming months. At the same time, as people lose their job opportunities and are confined to their homes, many families will find it difficult to survive.

According to Reuters, Vietnam plans to reopen the resort Phu Quoc Island to foreign tourists starting next month. Thailand plans to reopen the capital Bangkok and other major tourist destinations by October. Indonesia, which has vaccinated more than 16% of the population, has also relaxed restrictions, agreeing to reopen public places and allow factories to resume full operation. By October, foreign tourists may be allowed to enter the country’s resort destinations such as Bali.