By Ling Hui
KUCHING, April 27: Wearing of face masks is no longer mandatory outdoors and in open spaces, says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
In a hybrid press conference streamed from Putrajaya today, he said the new protocol, among others, would be effective starting this Sunday (May 1).
When indoors or in public transport including e-hailing, however, he said face masks are still compulsory and the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) remains enforced.
“There are a few exceptions. Face masks can be removed indoors when an individual is alone, doing heavy exercise, eating, drinking, speaking or performing,” he said.
Despite the relaxation of standard operating procedure (SOP), Khairy said face masks are still encouraged so as to reduce the transmission of Covid-19.
He said when in presence of high-risk groups including the elderly, those immunocompromised, with comorbidities, or unvaccinated, it is the public’s social responsibility to put on face masks to protect these people.
Meanwhile, Khairy also announced that handshakes are now allowed but members of the public are advised to wash their hands often, maintain personal hygiene and not to touch the eyes, nose and mouth after having contact with others. — Dayakdaily
