In a special address at 8 p.m. on Thursday 23 April 2020, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the Movement Control Order (MCO) will be extended for two weeks until 12 May 2020.
The PM announced that during this time, the government will refer to the latest data to determine the next course of action. If there is a continued drop of cases, there may be certain relaxation of rules. However, he did not rule out the possibility that the MCO may be extended further. He also reassured the public that plans are underway to revive the economy, chaired by the National Security Council. The plans will include both short-term and long-term plans.
He also hinted at certain industries potentially being allowed to operate in the near future, provided that certain conditions are met. In addition, our Prime Minister also announced two major changes to phase four of the MCO.
First, students on campuses will be allowed to return to their hometowns soon. The process to bring these students home is being planned with advice from the Ministry of Health. Details about this operation will be revealed in due time by the government.
Next, for those stuck in rural areas before the start of Phase 1 of the MCO, the government will allow a one-time journey to another location. However, those who wish to do so have to register online or make an appointment with the relevant authorities. Those who wish to make the journey need to ensure that they are healthy and do not display any symptoms of the virus. More details to follow.
PM Muhyiddin reiterated that the slight relaxation of the rules will not interfere with the country’s efforts in curbing the spread of COVID-19. To that end, the government will be taking extra precautions to ensure this is the case.
Finally, the prime minister sent out a rallying cry to all Malaysians, saying that the war with COVID-19 is far from over but that if we stay strong, we will surely overcome the struggles.
The PM also used his speech to convey some season’s greetings for the fasting month, wishing all Muslims a blessed Ramadan, and to thank all frontliners for their sacrifice.
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