The Malaysian Insight

THE government has lifted the conditional movement order (CMCO) and replaced it with a recovery movement control order effective June 10 until August 31.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced today the end of the CMCO which has seen a relaxation of strict shutdown measures imposed by the original movement control order issued on March 18 to contain the coronavirus outbreak.

Restrictions on interstate travel, some religious gatherings and meetings are among those to be lifted in the latest version of the order.

Shops, food courts and restaurants may resume normal operating hours but they will be required to comply with guidelines against crowding.

“Commercial activities such as sales and marketing outside the original business premises are allowed,” said Muhyiddin in a special televised broadcast this afternoon.

Visits to the museums and launderettes, film production and recreational fishing at commercial ponds are no longer prohibited.

“Meetings and workshops are allowed but strict hygiene and space usage protocols must apply ,” he said.

Activities during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidiladha festival will be allowed subject to certain conditions to be announced soon by the Islamic Affairs Department.

Limits on the size of the congregation in the houses of worships will be eased with new guidelines to be announced soon.

Domestic tourism will be allowed but operators and sites must obey the given guidelines.

Activities that are still prohibited are wedding feasts and kenduri, open houses and other events that involve crowds and preclude social distancing, said the prime minister.

Restrictions remain for selected entertainment and sports activities, including pubs, karaokes, dance clubs, reflexology centres, entertainment centres and theme parks; contact sports such as football, rugby, basketball, hockey, martial arts; sports tournaments and gatherings which involve big groups of people.

“If there is a spike in Covid-19 infections, the government will not hesitate to put the area concerned under an enhanced movement control order,” said Muhyiddin

“The government cannot control your movements forever. So it’s up to the public to take on this responsibility to ensure that the SOPs are followed and that the virus’ infection rate is kept low.” – June 7, 2020.