What's the government response timeline for Malaysia?

Director-General of Health's press statement regarding the novel coronavirus; preparatory steps taken to deal with potential spreading of the disease [ https://kpkesihatan.com/2020/01/16/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-16-januari-2020-kesiapsiagaan-dan-respons-kkm-dalam-menghadapi-potensi-penularan-novel-coronavirus-wuhan-china/]

On 16 January, the Director-General of Health outlined preparatory steps taken to deal with potential spreading of Covid-19 including strengthened screening at government clinics, hospitals, and all entry points into the country [ https://kpkesihatan.com/2020/01/16/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-16-januari-2020-kesiapsiagaan-dan-respons-kkm-dalam-menghadapi-potensi-penularan-novel-coronavirus-wuhan-china/] The Ministry of Health (MOH) clarified on 16 March that it tests only "persons under investigation" (PUI) and close contacts that meet the criteria. [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/focus/2020/03/15/understanding-screening-and-testing-criteria-for-covid-19] The MOH guideline (updated 24 March, but presumably there were previous versions which cannot be located) classified patients as PUI if they meet the following criteria: (1) Acute respiratory infection (sudden onset of respiratory infection with at least one of: shortness of breath, cough or sore throat) with or without Fever; AND (2a) Travelled to / resided in foreign country within 14 days before the onset of illness OR (2b) Close contact1 in 14 days before illness onset with a confirmed case of COVID-19 OR (2c) Attended an event associated with known COVID-19 outbreak [ http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Garis%20Panduan/COVID19/Annex_1_case_definition_COVID_22032020.pdf]

Ministry of Health has been issuing updates, guidance and infographics since around the time of the 1st case on 23 Jan 2020 [ http://www.moh.gov.my/index.php/pages/view/2019-ncov-wuhan-infografik; https://twitter.com/KKMPutrajaya; https://m.facebook.com/kementeriankesihatanmalaysia/]

Following information received from Singaporean counterparts, Malaysia's Ministry of Health conducted contact tracing on 8 Chinese nationals known to have close contact with a Covid patient. [ https://kpkesihatan.com/2020/01/24/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-24-januari-2020-tindakan-kkm-bagi-pengesanan-kontak-contact-tracing-kepada-kes-pertama-positif-novel-coronavirus-di-negara-singapura-pada-24-januari-2020/]

Comprehensive tracing on 1 new case [ https://kpkesihatan.com/2020/01/25/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-25-januari-2020-pengesanan-kes-baharu-yang-disahkan-dijangkiti-2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-di-malaysia/]

State of Sabah bans travellers from Wuhan, China; https://www.theborneopost.com/2020/01/30/wuhan-coronavirus-all-flights-from-china-to-sabah-suspended-as-state-govt-imposes-travel-ban/

State of Sarawak bans travellers with recent travel history to China; https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/02/01/s039wak-bars-visitors-with-recent-travel-history-to-china

State of Sabah extends travel ban to all visitors with recent travel history to China; https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news_coronavirus.php?id=1812373

The News published 0n 15th February, 2020 in New Strait Times mentions "The Health Ministry is in the process of tracing flight crew members and passengers on board the same aircraft with the American woman who tested positive for Covid-19 here. Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye said the ministry is working closely with the airline company to obtain particulars of the other passengers on board the aircraft that arrived in the country from Cambodia on Feb 14. Link: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/02/565906/moh-working-contact-tracing-22nd-covid-19-patient

Contact tracing on "close contacts" of confirmed cases carried out by the Ministry of Health's Rapid Assessment Team (RAT) & Rapid Response Team (RRT)[ http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Garis%20Panduan/Pengurusan%20KEsihatan%20&%20kawalan%20pykit/2019-nCOV/Bil%204%20%202020/Annex%2013%20Field%20Investigating_26022020.pdf]

National ban on visitors from South Korea; https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/covid19-malaysia-imposes-temporary-ban-visitors-south-korea

State government of Selangor advised all events involving public participation to be postponed following the second wave of COVID-19 infection in the country [ https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/07/covid-19-prompts-selangor-govt-to-advise-cancellation-of-public-events/1844302]

Malaysian authorities tracking around 5,000 citizens across the country believed to have been potentially exposed to the coronavirus at a religious event [ https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-health-coronavirus-malaysia/malaysia-tracking-5000-people-possibly-exposed-to-coronavirus-at-religious-event-idUKKBN20Y1KI]

Ban of gatherings with over 250 people https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/malaysia-bans-public-gatherings-over-250-people-curb-covid19-spread

The Education Ministry has advised all educational activities and programmes involving the gathering of people be postponed following the Covid-19 outbreak. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/14/covid-19-schools-advised-to-postpone-all-activities-programmes/1846545

Movement control order announced on 16 March, to take effect on 18 March [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases]

Movement control order announced on 16 March, to take effect on 18 March [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/0

Malaysians who have just returned from overseas, are required to undergo a health check and quarantine for 14 days; Restrictions on the entry of all tourists and foreign visitors into the country; https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases

Closure of all kindergartens, government and private schools [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases]

Closure of all government and private premises except those involved in essential services (water, electricity, energy, telecommunications, postal, transportation, irrigation, oil, gas, fuel, lubricants, broadcasting, finance, banking, health, pharmacy, fire, prison, port, airport, safety, defense, cleaning, retail and food supply [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases]

On 16th March, Malaysian Prime Minister Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announces nationwide prohibition of movement and mass assembly, commencing from 18th March. This banned all public events and gatherings. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases

On 16th March, Malaysian Prime Minister Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announces nationwide prohibition of movement and mass assembly, commencing from 18th March. This banned all public events and gatherings. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/13/muhyiddin-all-gatherings-postponed-until-april-30-or-to-be-cancelled-due-to-covid-19

Partial lockdown in place since 18 March. Under the partial lockdown, non-essential businesses and schools were shut while domestic and international travel was prohibited. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-covid-19-muhyiddin-movement-control-order-jun-9-extend-12718738

Nationwide prohibition of movement [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/16/malaysia-announces-restricted-movement-measure-after-spike-in-covid-19-cases]

Operation hours of public transport services will be limited during the Movement Control Order between 6am to 10am and 5pm to 10pm [ https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/577329/public-transport-hours-limited-during-mco-period-nsttv]

Patients are classified as "under investigation for Covid-19 if they meet the following criteria: (1) Acute respiratory infection (sudden onset of respiratory infection with at least one of: shortness of breath, cough or sore throat) with or without Fever; AND (2a) Travelled to / resided in foreign country within 14 days before the onset of illness OR (2b) Close contact1 in 14 days before illness onset with a confirmed case of COVID-19 OR (2c) Attended an event associated with known COVID-19 outbreak [ http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Garis%20Panduan/COVID19/Annex_1_case_definition_COVID_22032020.pdf] Health Director-General: Malaysia will double daily testing capacity to 7,000, before stepping that up to 16,500 by the first week of April. “Once we have the capacity ready, we will scale up active case detection, testing, isolation and treatment.” [ https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-malaysia/malaysia-steps-up-coronavirus-tests-as-it-braces-for-worst-scenario-idUSKBN21B0GC]

Ministry of Health Guidelines (COVID-19 Management No.5/2020 update on 24 March 2020) Management Of Closed Contacts of Confirmed Case: Closed contacts of confirmed case were defined as: a. Health care associated exposure, including providing direct care for COVID19 patients without using appropriate PPE, working with health care workers infected with COVID-19, visiting patients or staying in the same close environment of a COVID-19 patient. b. Working together in close proximity or sharing the same classroom environment with a with COVID-19 patient c. Traveling together with COVID-19 patient in any kind of conveyance d. Living in the same household as a COVID-19 patient 2. Close contacts can be detected through the following activities: a. Contact tracing by the Rapid Assessment Team (RAT) and the Rapid Response Team (RRT) on the field; b. Monitoring of personnel who were in close physical contact to the case or who were handling the relevant specimens; c. Health screening at the point of entry (POE) d. Person who came and declare themselves at either government and private hospital and clinic [ http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Garis%20Panduan/COVID19/Annex_12a_Management_of_Close_Contacts_of_Confirmed_Case_23032020.pdf]

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/578445/smartphone-app-track-contacts-covid-19-patients As of 26 Mar. “The government will launch a smartphone application that will be able track the contacts of Covid-19 patients in a bid to tackle the outbreak.”

All banks will provide an automatic deferment of all loan/financing repayments for a period of 6 months, with effect from 1 April 2020. This applies to performing loans that have not been in arrears for more than 90 days as at 1 April 2020. Interest will continue to accrue unless otherwise informed by the bank. [ https://www.bnm.gov.my/covid19/indiv.php; https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/24/bank-negara-announces-automatic-six-month-moratorium-on-all-bank-loans-exce/1849820]

Health officers are actively tracking down Covid-19 cases in three areas that have been placed under an enhanced movement control order (MCO). Once an area is placed under an enhanced MCO, the ministry screens the whole community and village. [ https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/518666]

The Health Ministry clarified that it is not practising mass screening for Covid-19 as its strategy is geared towards a more focused approach, such as targeting those in high-risk groups. Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah: "We are using a focused or targeted approach involving those in the high risk groups...The high risk groups include those who have attended the (Seri Petaling tabligh) gathering and tahfiz schools, and those related to the Rohingya, for example, who have also attended the gathering...So those related to these group and their contacts, most importantly their family members and close contacts, we are tracing them and advising them to come forward and then tests are done on them."[ https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/581568/health-dg-explains-why-no-mass-screening-covid-19]

On 27 March, the government announced the Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus Package which includes the following direct cash payments and wage subsidy programme: (1) One-off cash assistance to the bottom 40% and middle 40% income groups including the following payments: RM1,600 to nearly 4 million households earning less than RM4,000 a month, RM1,000 to nearly 1.1 million households earning between RM4,000-RM8,000 a month; RM800 to 3 million single individuals aged 21 and above, earning less than RM2,000 a month; RM500 to 400,000 single individuals aged 21 years and above, earning between RM2,000 and RM4,000 per month. (2) One-off cash assistance of RM500 to more than 1.5 million civil servants. (3) Wage Subsidy Programme: the Government will provide salary of RM600 per month to every employee for 3 months. This programme is dedicated to workers earning less than RM4,000 and employers experiencing more than 50% decrease in their income since 1 January 2020. Employers must ensure that there is no retrenchment or imposing unpaid leave or forcing a wage cut for the next 3 months after the implementation of the programme. (4) One- off cash assistance of RM500 to 120,000 e-hailing drivers with a total allocation of RM60 million. [ https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/581256/prihatin-rakyat-financial-aid-fast-tracked-first-payment-now-set-monday] On 4 April, the Minister of Finance announced that the above financial aid disbursements will be made starting 6 April [ https:/www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/581256/prihatin-rakyat-financial-aid-fast-tracked-first-payment-now-set-monday] On 6 April, the Prime Minister announced further measures on the Wage Subsidy Programme which will be expanded from RM5.9 billion to RM13.8 billion. Under this additional initiative, all companies with local employees earning a monthly salary each of RM4,000 and below will receive wage subsidies as follows: (a) For companies with a workforce of more than 200 people, a wage subsidy of RM600 per month for every retained worker will be provided. The maximum number of workers that a company is eligible to claim for will be increased from 100 to 200 employees. (b) For companies with employees between 75 to 200 people, they will receive a wage subsidy of RM800 per month for every employee. (c) Finally, for companies with employees of less than 75 people, the government will provide a wage subsidy of RM1,200 per month per employee. This assistance is for a 3-month period and is specifically for employers registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) or local authorities before 1 January 2020 and are registered with the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO). It is estimated that 4.8 million employees will benefit from this initiative. For employers opting to accept this assistance, they are required to retain their employees at least for a period of 6 months, that is 3 months during the period receiving the subsidies and 3 months thereafter.

To access the new service, patients will have to pre-register and book an appointment online https://www.zdnet.com/article/malaysia-to-get-quicker-access-to-covid-19-tests-results/ “A private laboratory consortium in Malaysia is rolling out a nationwide COVID-19 collection and testing programme that aims to conduct more than 5,000 tests a day, with a 24-hour turnaround time. Touted to be the country's largest such collection and testing scheme, it is set to begin as a drive-through service in Klang.”

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-malaysia/malaysia-to-step-up-coronavirus-tests-with-korean-antigen-rapid-kits-idUSKCN21Y1JJ “Malaysia has approved the use of antigen rapid test kits from South Korea, as it looks to increase its coronavirus testing among high-risk groups and in places where clusters are detected, a health official said on Thursday.”

The Prime Minister announced on 10 April that the movement control order (MCO) will be extended by another two weeks, from April 15 to April 28, to curb the spread of Covid-19. Schools would remain closed with home-based and online learning in place until the situation was considered safe for children to return to schools.[ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/10/mco-extended-until-april-28-pm-announces]

The Prime Minister announced on 10 April that the movement control order (MCO) will be extended by another two weeks, from April 15 to April 28. However, an additional list of businesses have been allowed to operate during the MCO [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/10/govt-allows-more-businesses-like-hair-salon-optometry-to-open-during-mco], including: 1. Automotive industry (limited to exports of CBU, parts and components, plus after-sale services); 2. Machinery and equipment industry; 3. Aerospace industry; 4. Construction projects and services related to construction works (Projects that have achieved physical progress of 90% and above; Tunnelling works; Maintenance works; Sloping works; Emergency works that are consequent to contractual obligations; Maintenance, cleaning and drying of stagnant water, spraying of pesticides at construction sites which prevent the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and other pests; Other works that if left incomplete may result in danger; Building projects with 70 IBS score and above; Construction projects with accommodation facilities for workers, such as centralised quarters for workers or workers’ camp; Professional services related to the construction industry including architects, engineers, town-planners, land surveyors, quantity surveyors, project managers, facility managers as well as other relevant services; Science, professional and technical services, including R&D; (services incidental to legal practice, services incidental to oil and gas, R&D; activities related to Covid-19, and testing labs for the sectors allowed to operate); 6. Social health services including registered traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) practitioners; 7. Hardware shops, electrical and electronic (E&E;) shops and optometrists in the wholesale and retail industry; 8. Laundry services (only those offering full-service and does not include self-service laundrettes); 9. Barber shops and hair salons (offering haircuts only) The industries, which include non-essential services and products, must apply online from 9am on Monday (April 13) to the International Trade and Industry Ministry's (Miti) website www.miti.gov.my for permission to operate during the MCO.

The Prime Minister announced on 10 April that the movement control order (MCO) will be extended by another two weeks, from April 15 to April 28. [ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/10/mco-extended-until-april-28-pm-announces] Following the initial MCO, Foreigners are banned from entering the country; Malaysians are barred from leaving the country; Malaysians returning from overseas must undergo a 14-day quarantine. [ https://www.pmo.gov.my/2020/03/movement-control-order/]. From April 3 onwards, the 14-day quarantine must be done in designated quarantine centres. [ https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/04/02/covid-19-14-day-mandatory-quarantine-for-returning-malaysians-foreign-visit/1852802]

The news published in Open Gov. on 27th April mentions that 20th April government launched a app for contact tracing. Link: https://www.opengovasia.com/malaysias-contact-tracing-app-to-allow-interstate-travel-applications/

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-extends-movement-control-order-may-12-12670228 as of 23 Apr. “Malaysia’s movement control order (MCO) has once again been extended by another 14 days, until May 12”

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-extends-movement-control-order-may-12-12670228 as of 23 Apr. “Malaysia’s movement control order (MCO) has once again been extended by another 14 days, until May 12”

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-extends-movement-control-order-may-12-12670228 as of 23 Apr. “Malaysia’s movement control order (MCO) has once again been extended by another 14 days, until May 12”

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/587475/malaysia-shows-progress-covid-19-testing-capabilities “Malaysia's capabilities in running Covid-19 tests have further improved beyond the benchmark set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said WHO had set the positivity rate of 10 per cent, which stipulated one positive case out of every 10 tests carried out."

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/01/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-conditional-movement-control-order/1862092 As of 1 May. “Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today announced the conditional movement control order (CMCO) with various economic and social activities allowed, from May 4, subject to the conditions and standard operating procedure which have been set.” “For now, all schools, colleges and tertiary institutions are still not opened.”

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/01/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-conditional-movement-control-order/1862092 As of 1 May. “Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today announced the conditional movement control order (CMCO) with various economic and social activities allowed, from May 4, subject to the conditions and standard operating procedure which have been set.” “The full list of businesses or activities which are not allowed (to operate) can be obtained at the National Security Council’s website. It is updated from time to time, depending on the development of Covid-19 cases.” “Public and private sector employees are encouraged to work from home as the new normal.”

Most businesses reopen. It is recommended citizens wear masks when going out https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/04/malaysia-relaxes-its-covid-19-partial-lockdown-today-so-what-can-we-expect/1862713

According to news published in Malay mail "Inter-state travel is only allowed for work purposes, and for those who were previously stranded elsewhere to return home" https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/04/malaysia-relaxes-its-covid-19-partial-lockdown-today-so-what-can-we-expect/1862713

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/malaysia/coronavirus UK Foreign Travel advice: Malaysia “The government of Malaysia has introduced a Movement Control Order that restricts the entry of foreign nationals until 12 May 2020. Under the terms of that Order, no foreign nationals can enter Malaysia except those with diplomatic passports, those who have Permanent Residence or those who are an “expatriate in an essential service”. If you or your dependents have other visas, including working visas or “Malaysia My Second Home” visas, these do not qualify for an exemption and you will not be permitted to enter.”

https://www.pantai.com.my/COVID-19-On-Site-Screening-Services Who is eligible for the COVID-19 Drive-Thru Screening Services? * ALL individuals WITHOUT symptoms who wishes to screen for COVID-19. * Individuals WITH symptoms, but NO history of travelling overseas. * Individuals WITH symptoms, but NO history of contact with known case of COVID-19.

On May 10, it was announced that the partial MCO had been extended until June 9. However, as announced on May1, almost all economic sectors and business activities will be allowed to operate from May 4, depending on protocols and SOP decided by authorities." Mr Muhyiddin explained that some industries and business activities will remain closed as they involve mass gatherings, and where social distancing is difficult to enforce. These includes cinemas, karaoke lounges, reflexology centres, nightclubs, Ramadan bazaars, Hari Raya Aidilfitri bazaars, sale carnivals as well as all conferences and exhibitions. Sources: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-covid-19-muhyiddin-movement-control-order-jun-9-extend-12718738 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-reopen-almost-all-economic-sectors-may-4-12693816

On May 10, Mr Muhyiddin explained that some industries and business activities will remain closed as they involve mass gatherings, and where social distancing is difficult to enforce. These includes cinemas, karaoke lounges, reflexology centres, nightclubs, Ramadan bazaars, Hari Raya Aidilfitri bazaars, sale carnivals as well as all conferences and exhibitions. Source: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-covid-19-muhyiddin-movement-control-order-jun-9-extend-12718738

The government of Malaysia has extended the Movement Control Order that restricts the entry of foreign nationals until 12 May 2020. Source: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/malaysia

"While advising against open house gatherings and banquets, the prime minister said gatherings of up to 20 people are allowed during the celebrations." "The government has eased some COVID-19 curbs by allowing the majority of economic sectors to resume their operations beginning May 4" https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-covid-19-muhyiddin-movement-control-order-jun-9-extend-12718738

Under the lockdown, mass gatherings over 250 were not allowed. Since 4th May, lockdown is eased for economic activity. Sectors/businesses that require public gatherings are excluded. Mass gathering at the places of worship is not permitted either. https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2020/05/01/malaysia-reopens-on-may-4-but-mass-gatherings-interstate-travel-still-banned/

Malaysia will extend its relaxed lockdown by four weeks, allowing nearly all economic activities to continue while keeping its borders shut and schools closed. https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1915664/malaysia-extends-relaxed-lockdown-until-june-9

Malaysia will extend its relaxed lockdown by four weeks, allowing nearly all economic activities to continue while keeping its borders shut and schools closed. https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1915664/malaysia-extends-relaxed-lockdown-until-june-9

Gatherings of up to 20 people are allowed during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Pesta Kaamatan and Hari Gawai celebrations. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-ending-movement-control-order-muhyiddin-12764028

Interstate travel are still banned. Mr Muhyiddin announced that people would not be allowed to cross states to celebrate the upcoming celebrations. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-ending-movement-control-order-muhyiddin-12764028

The government of Malaysia has introduced a Movement Control Order that restricts the entry of foreign nationals until 9 June 2020. Under the terms of that Order, no foreign nationals can enter Malaysia except those with diplomatic passports, those who have Permanent Residence or those who are an “expatriate in an essential service”. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/malaysia/entry-requirements

The Health director-general said the RT-PCR testing at the very beginning was only 7,000 to 8,000 a day but was now almost 30,000. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/05/28/malaysia039s-covid-19-testing-capacity-boosted-by-rtk-antigen-method

https://themalaysianreserve.com/2020/06/22/the-dos-and-donts-of-rmco/ “Similarly, barbershops, hair salons and beauty parlours have been given the approval to resume operations from June 10 with strict adherence to SOPs and hygiene.” “That being said, the government still prohibits certain activities where it will be difficult to carry out social distancing. This includes pubs, nightclubs, massage centres, karaoke centres, theme parks, mass religious and social gatherings, open houses and other activities that involve large numbers of people in one place.”

https://themalaysianreserve.com/2020/06/22/the-dos-and-donts-of-rmco/ “Ismail Sabri said the public are now allowed to carry out sports and recreational activities without bodily contact for indoor and outdoor facilities. However, watersports like swimming in both public and private residence pools, as well as tournaments and sports competitions are still prohibited.” “Meetings, workshops and seminars can be done, as long as the organisers follow necessary health and safety protocols, and limited to 250 people.”

https://themalaysianreserve.com/2020/06/22/the-dos-and-donts-of-rmco/ “Ismail Sabri said the public are now allowed to carry out sports and recreational activities without bodily contact for indoor and outdoor facilities. However, watersports like swimming in both public and private residence pools, as well as tournaments and sports competitions are still prohibited.” “Meetings, workshops and seminars can be done, as long as the organisers follow necessary health and safety protocols, and limited to 250 people.”

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-malaysia-curbs/malaysia-to-reopen-most-economic-activity-with-virus-outbreak-under-control-idUSKBN23E08N Reuters  Malaysia on Sunday said it would reopen nearly all economic activity and allow interstate travel starting June 10, lifting coronavirus restrictions imposed nearly three months ago as it moves to revive an economy battered by the pandemic.

From June 10, the Malaysian government is encouraging domestic travel. Internal border closures will be removed, and all forms of public transport, including flights, are allowed to operate at full capacity. External borders still remain closed for recreational travel. https://archive.vn/qioV2 https://archive.vn/0XNA2

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/06/11/those-earning-below-rm4000-a-month-eligible-for-wage-subsidy-programme the Wage Subsidy Programme (PSU) Q: When does the programme end? A: The deadline for applications is Sept 30. (For details please refer to the note as of 6 April)

On June 12, the Ministry of Education announced that schools would gradually start opening from June 24. However, the announcement left many details concerning issues such as the scheduling of examinations vague, prompting criticism from teachers and parents. https://archive.vn/ns8Yj

"Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri (Senior Minister) said open markets, morning markets, night markets and bazaars can resume operations on June 15." https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/barber-shops-beauty-parlours-markets-set-to-reopen-in-malaysia

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/coronavirus-malaysian-government-in-talks-with-spore-to-open-up-borders-for-citizens-of Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Senior Minister (Security), said in a press conference on Friday (June 19) that Malaysia's Health Ministry has determined that Singapore and Brunei are green zone countries, and the government has agreed to allow citizens from both nations to enter Malaysia.

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/coronavirus-malaysia-plans-reopening-of-schools-using-three-different-safety-models Straits Times The government had from June 24 allowed more than 500,000 students from some 2,500 schools to return to classes, as they would be taking their secondary and international leaving examinations. Schools will reopen on July 15 for primary five and six (Years Five and Six) students, and for secondary one to four (Forms One to Four) pupils. Primary one to four (Years One to Four) students will return to their classes on July 22, said Education Minister Mohd Radzi Md Jidin on Wednesday (July 1).

"Malaysia will allow the reopening from Wednesday (July 1) of theme parks, including those offering water attractions such as swimming pools, said Senior Minister (Security) Ismail Sabri Yaakob on Monday (June 29)." "Spas and massage centres, cinemas, theatres, indoor live events and swimming pool activities are also allowed to operate from today." (July 1st) https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-to-reopen-theme-parks-and-easing-up-on-temperature-checks-at-every-shop-in-a https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/01/observe-sop-as-more-sectors-reopen

"green light from the Malaysian authorities allowing weddings to take place again from Jul 1" "In the case of weddings and solemnisation ceremonies, no more than 250 guests are allowed at one time, whether held in a mosque, hall, house or other locations." https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-covid-19-weddings-couples-photographer-makeup-12874416 https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/01/observe-sop-as-more-sectors-reopen

Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has decreed that all mosques and suraus be opened for Friday prayers (solat) beginning this Friday (July 3), according to a statement from the Selangor Royal Office. The number of worshippers who can carry out the Friday prayers and solat fardhu at any one time at three mosques in the state must not be more than 1,000 people. The number of attendees for the Friday solat and solat fardhu in all other mosques is limited to 500 depending on the mosques’ capacity. As for suraus, the number of worshipers allowed to carry out the Friday solat and solat fardhu is set at 40. Mohamad Munir also said that the Selangor Sultan has also decreed that every member of the congregation must adhere to the SOP set by JAIS, especially on taking the wuduk at home, bringing one’s own prayer mats, wear face masks in mosques and suraus as well as practise social distancing. For those who are not well, they are not allowed to carry out solat in mosques and suraus at all. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/01/selangor-mosques-opened-for-friday-prayers-starting-july-3

Foreigners can enter Malaysia to be with their ill spouse if they can present official documentation of their partner's condition to the Immigration authorities, said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on July 8th. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/08/foreigners-can-reunite-with-sick-malaysian-spouse-if-able-to-show-proof-of-illness

Primary and secondary school students in Malaysia will return to schools beginning July 15, said Senior Minister and Education Minister Mohd Radzi Md Jidin on Wednesday (Jul 1). Schools have the option to reopen with single, dual or rotational sessions to ensure social distancing, he said. “For secondary schools, Form 1 to Form 4 students as well as those in Remove classes will return to schools next Wednesday, Jul 15. “For primary schools, those in Year 5 and Year 6 will return to schools on Wednesday, Jul 15, while the reopening date for students in Year 1 to Year 4 is Wednesday, Jul 22,” he added. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-education-schools-reopen-jul-15-jul-22-12890822 https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/22/youngest-students-return-to-school

July 15th: Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to start cross-border travel for long-term pass holders and travellers on essential or official business, scheduled to begin on Aug 10. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/spore-malaysia-to-start-limited-cross-border-travel-on-aug-10

PETALING JAYA: Schools have fully reopened for the first time since the movement control order (MCO) was implemented on March 18. The final phase of the reopening today involves Years 1 to 4 pupils. The reopening date for students in Year 1 to Year 4 is Wednesday, Jul 22. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/22/youngest-students-return-to-school https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-education-schools-reopen-jul-15-jul-22-12890822

"All foreign nationals, with limited exceptions, are restricted from entry to Malaysia until August 31, though this end date may be further extended at the discretion of the Malaysian government. Please see below for additional details on the exceptions to this policy, and note that all travelers MUST have permission from the Malaysian authorities prior to traveling to Malaysia. Any travelers permitted to enter Malaysia during the MCO will be subject to COVID-19 testing and as of July 24, all travelers will be required to undergo a mandatory fourteen-day quarantine at a facility designated by the Malaysian government and the full cost of quarantine must be borne by the traveler." https://my.usembassy.gov/health-alert-covid-072220/ Initially it was possible to quarantine at home (from July 10th). However, starting July 24th it will be mandatory to do so in hotels or quarantine centres. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/22/no-more-quarantine-at-home

July 25th: Malaysia has increased its daily capacity testing for Covid-19 to 37,000 cases from 35,000 previously, says Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba. (Health minister) https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/25/health-minister-daily-capacity-testing-for-covid-19-now-increased-to-37000

Five schools in Kedah have been closed in four sub-districts in the Malaysian state of Kedah have been put under the "targeted enhanced movement control order (MCO)" following the growing number of Covid-19 cases linked to the Sivagangga cluster in the state on 3 August. http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/4-areas-in-malaysias-kedah-under-lockdown-5-schools-ordered-to-close-amid-rise-in-covid

Four sub-districts in the Malaysian state of Kedah have been put under the "targeted enhanced move control order (MCO)" following the growing number of Covid-19 cases linked to the Sivagangga cluster in the state. It is learnt that the targeted enhanced MCO would affect the movement of people living within 1km radius of a restaurant in Kubang Pasu, in which the owner is said to have tested positive for Covid-19. http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/4-areas-in-malaysias-kedah-under-lockdown-5-schools-ordered-to-close-amid-rise-in-covid

"Malaysia has a ‘Recovery Movement Control Order’ (RMCO) in place until 31 August 2020. The RMCO will allow the majority of business, religious and social activities to operate under strict hygiene and social distancing practices. Activities which pose a higher risk of COVID--19 transmission remain prohibited including nightclubs, pubs, amusement parks, reflexology and massage centres, open houses, mass social gatherings and mass religious gatherings." https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/malaysia

"Activities which pose a higher risk of COVID--19 transmission remain prohibited including ... mass social gatherings and mass religious gatherings." https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/malaysia

"Domestic travel within Malaysia is permitted, except to Enhanced Movement Control Order areas." https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/malaysia

"Tourists are not permitted to enter Malaysia. All foreigners who are given permission to enter Malaysia are subject to 14 days quarantine on arrival." https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/malaysia

Wage Subsidy Program continues, as planned and documented above, with cut off for applications 30th Sept.