Main image via Malay Mail + Coconuts
It’s been said over and over again, do not travel interstate to balik kampung, especially if you’re unauthorized. Unfortunately, there are many who are still trying to defy the CMCO rules and attempting to balik kampung in time for Raya celebrations.
And now, the authorities have officially banned interstate travel.
Image via The Leaders Online
We know that Raya celebrations this year will be very different from what we’re used to. Sadly, these are the measures we have to take in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Though Malaysia has been having many positive results in regards to cases, the authorities are doing all they can to stop the chances of a second wave sweeping through the nation.
And now, despite repeated warnings, over 2,412 vehicles were caught trying to cross state borders. As such, Senior minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has now stated that interstate travel will not be allowed during the conditional movement control order.
Image via Coconuts
“The insistence of people trying to return to their hometown hasn’t changed despite our repeated warnings,” said the senior minister. “Last night, 1,300 queued up at the Kuantan district police station to apply to travel between states, just trying their luck.”
“We decided today, that no one will be allowed for interstate travel,” he said. “So don’t bother to queue anymore. The police will no longer be allowing interstate travel.”
Due to the high number of people attempting to cross state borders over the past few days, the Senior minister also noted that the police will issue compounds on the spot at roadblocks and be turned back immediately.
Image via Malay Mail
“We want people to know we are serious about stopping this,” he said at his daily press conference. “We have been saying it. Yesterday we were told that one woman who went back home to Kelantan to give birth was positive for Covid-19 so we are not compromising.”
For those who have managed to sneak through back roads to balik kampung, rest assured that they will not get away scot-free.
“Police will still be able to find you,” he noted. “It doesn’t mean you can get away with it. We might still be able to get you on the way back to Kuala Lumpur.”
Only emergency situations such as a death in the family, will be granted permission for interstate travel.
Image via SoyaCincau
It’s been said time and time again, so there really is no excuse.
Raya celebrations may be a different this year, but let’s all do our part to embrace this new normal together to keep our loved ones and everyone around us safe.Let’s all try do our part to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by adhering to the CMCO rules.
In the meantime, be sure to keep playing your part by staying safe and staying home, and only going out if it’s absolutely necessary. And if you’re going out, be sure to practice social distancing.
Stay updated with the latest COVID-19 news here: https://en.syok.my/covid-19
Info via Malay Mail