The movement control order (MCO) implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country has been extended until May 12, an additional 2 weeks.
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said during this period, the government would review the latest data from the health ministry to determine the next step.
“I do not dismiss the possibility that the MCO will be further extended after this. However, if the number of COVID-19 cases continues to drop, the government may relax the restrictions in stages for several sectors, including the social sector. This is to enable people to enjoy a more comfortable life. The National Security Council is coming up with a plan for this.”
Muhyiddin said the government would continue to study the latest data from the health ministry, adding that he was not ruling out a further extension.
This could mean Muslims would not be able to celebrate Hari Raya in their kampungs, and businesses may not be allowed to fully operate yet.
Despite the lower number of cases in the past week, he said, the efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 needed to be maintained until authorities were confident the outbreak was under control.
Muhyiddin said Putrajaya was studying how to revive the economy in stages, with short-, mid- and long-term economic recovery plans in the works.
While the data have been optimistic, we cannot forget to continue the social distancing when the festival holidays are slowly approaching.
Let us #StayHopefulWithIQI with a few articles to help calm the mind:
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Remember, it is times like these where need we keep our heads above the water for the sake of ourselves, our loved ones and our community. Keep calm and carry on the Malaysian spirit as high as you can!