The higher education ministry said in a statement that the students allowed to return are those who need access to practical classes as well as to use laboratories, studios and special devices for their studies.

Students who do not have access to the internet or who lack a conducive environment for learning online can also return to campus.

Others include those enrolled in pre-universities and diploma courses who have been staying in-campus, international students, except UK students, disabled students, and those taking the Malaysian University English Test as well as international and professional examinations.

Students not in these categories will continue their lessons online, the ministry said.

Peninsula students returning to campuses in Sabah and Sarawak must take swab tests at no charge. Those going to Sarawak must undergo two weeks’ quarantine first.

Students from Sarawak and Sabah returning to campuses in the peninsula will also be placed in quarantine centres.