The Malaysian Insight

SCHOOLS and entertainment outlets may be allowed to reopen if new Covid-19 infections remain low, said Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

The director-general of health said a decision will be made in the first week of June.

Today, he announced a daily tally of 10 coronavirus cases, the lowest on record since the movement-control order (MCO) came into force on March 18 to curb the virus’ spread.

The country has been under the conditional MCO since May 4. It is slated to end on June 9.

Yesterday, the Health Ministry recorded 15 new infections.

Although the low figures are in line with the ministry’s projections, said Dr Noor Hisham, the “onus is on the public” to ensure the trend continues.

“Our concern is the festive season. Next week and the following week, if we can sustain our achievements in terms of our daily cases, if we can continue to have lower double digits or single digits, then on June 9, we will make a decision.

“Which means, if we can sustain (the low figures) until June 9, taking into account the festive season, perhaps, we will open up more social sectors, as well as the education sector.

“Timing is important. And this is why we are very cautious before we make any change to our policies. We hope the public will work hand in hand with the ministry, and comply with the standard operating procedures.”

Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations began on Sunday, while Sabah and Sarawak will celebrate harvest festivals on Monday.

The Education Ministry has begun inspecting schools, with Minister Mohd Radzi Md Jidin visiting two just before Raya.

In a Facebook post last week, Radzi said he recently met Health Ministry and National Security Council officials to discuss the reopening of schools.

However, teachers have yet to receive guidelines on the resumption of classes. – May 28, 2020.