KUCHING, March 8: Malaysia will enter the endemic phase of Covid-19 beginning April 1, says Prime Minister Dato Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
In a press conference which was broadcast live by major media outlets today, he said that the decision was made after considering the country’s high vaccination rate comprising fully vaccinated individuals and those with booster shots; the low number of cases in Categories 3, 4, and 5; and other risk factors.
“This phase is an exit strategy to enable us to return to near-normalcy after almost two years of fighting Covid-19,” he said.
He added that this is also a temporary phase before the country fully transitions to the endemic stage, subject to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) announcement.
He said beginning April 1, operating hour limits have been lifted, and business premises are allowed to operate according to their respective licence conditions.
“This means eateries can operate past midnight, and we hope that during the upcoming Ramadan, it would be more convenient for Muslims who ‘sahur’ outside.”
However, face masks are still required to be worn in public places.
He also said check-ins using MySejahtera before entering premises are still mandatory, except for open areas that are not crowded and with no gatherings.
He added that MySJ Trace is still mandatory for enclosed spaces with guests and visitors.
The prime minister also announced that congregational prayer activities at mosques, surau and houses of worship of religions other than Islam could also be carried out without physical distancing.
However, he added that implementation and final standard operating procedures (SOPs) would be subject to the decision of the religious authorities in each state and the National Unity Ministry.
“Additionally, employee capacity limits depending on vaccination coverage is also lifted. Interstate travel will also be allowed for all regardless of vaccination status.
“The 50 per cent capacity for activities involving gatherings (such as weddings) is also lifted, but physical distancing is still mandatory.” — DayakDaily
