Main image via Malay Mail + Rojak Daily
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from other countries around the world, it’s that a second wave of COVID-19 could hit us if we’re not careful and take safety precautions.
As more and more sectors open up under the RMCO, more people are going back out in public and the threat of COVID-19 returning in large numbers again, looms near.
In order to put as much of a stop to the virus as they can, the government has officially made a ruling to make wearing a face mask in public, mandatory.
Image via Malay Mail
Starting 1st August, the use of face masks in crowded public areas and public transport will be made compulsory, said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Those who are found not complying with the new ruling may be fined or prosecuted in court, he noted.
According to the Senior Minister, the ruling was made after the increase of COVID-19 positive cases over the past three days and the lack of compliance in Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) seen among the public.
Image via Rojak Daily
"The Health Ministry reported that 50% of those undergoing home quarantine do not follow SOP,” he said. "Given the rise of double-digit Covid-19 cases, the government has decided to make the ruling compulsory," the Senior Minister said at a press conference.
"The government refrained from making it compulsory before this because we know that the lower-income group will face financial burden in purchasing face masks,” he continued. “Ideally, the masks should be changed every three hours but one face mask per day is also acceptable.”
"However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has ruled that people can make their own face masks but following a strict set of specifications,” he added. "In Malaysia, the Health Ministry will issue the specifications for home-made face masks soon.”
Image via AsiaOne
Along with introducing the new ruling, the Senior Minister also reminded everyone to keep complying with SOPs, especially in wearing face masks and practicing social distancing.
"Even though it is only compulsory to wear face masks in public from Aug 1, the people should start wearing them sooner, especially those travelling in public transport to 'balik kampung' for Hari Raya Aidiladha,” he said. "Wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing will assist tremendously in preventing the spread of Covid-19.”
With Hari Raya Aidiladha approaching, the Senior Minister was asked if the number of guests will once again be limited but he noted that the government has not yet made a decision on this.
"However, if there is a significant spike in cases and the Health Ministry advises as such, we will look into the matter,” he said. "The government's decision and ruling can change based on the latest development.”
Image via The Straits Times
So please remember, even if it’s not 1st August yet, put your face mask on when you’re in public or on public transport or you may be fined!
Let’s all do our part in preventing a second wave of COVID-19 by following the new ruling, following SOP and practicing social distancing!
Stay safe and stay updated with the latest COVID-19 news here: https://en.syok.my/covid-19
Info via The Star