Malaysia partially loosens COVID-19 restrictions hinh anh 1Taking test sample in Damansara, Malaysia. (Source: xinhua/VNA)

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced on May 1 that the nation will allow a majority of enterprises to resume operations from May 4 and partially ease restrictions imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

In a televised address, the leader affirmed that Malaysia is ready to begin a controlled and cautious reopening of economic activities.

On the advice of the Health Ministry and based on data collected and best practices established by the World Health Organization, the Government has decided to reopen the economic sector cautiously by enforcing strict health standard operating procedures, he said.

According to him, sports activities that involve 10 people or fewer, such as running, badminton and cycling, will be allowed. Restaurants will also be allowed to reopen but they have to maintain strict social distancing.

However, religious activities, large gatherings and businesses that involve close contacts such as cinemas and night clubs will not be allowed to reopen. And schools and universities will also remain closed.

Malaysia has not reopened its borders. Interstate travel will also be banned.

The leader required all people to continue wearing masks, practising social distancing and maintaining high levels of personal hygiene.

He also informed that the Government had lost 63 billion ringgit (14.6 billion USD) from the movement and travel restrictions imposed over six weeks. It will lose another 35 billion ringgit if the restrictions have been extended by a month./.

     
VNA