While it doesn’t seem like it’s been long since Singapore made mask-wearing optional in indoor settings, it seems like our neighbours across the causeway have followed suit with their own set of rules.
Just today (7 September), the Malaysian government announced that mask-wearing will no longer be mandatory in indoor settings across the country.
However, just like Singapore, Malaysians will still be required to put on masks whenever they enter public transport or medical facilities.
This move comes after Malaysia allowed mask-wearing to be optional apart from when individuals are in indoor settings and on public transport.
Earlier today (7 September), Malaysia’s Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin explained that despite the relaxed rules, individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 will still have to wear masks (of course).
Apart from that, he highly encouraged Malaysians to continue wearing masks for now since masks have been proven to be effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 (again, of course).
Additionally, he also noted that owners of indoor establishments will be allowed to decide whether or not patrons are required to wear masks within their premises.
If a patron insists on not wearing a mask to an establishment that still chooses to carry on with the mask-wearing rule, the establishment has the right to stop the patron from entering the premises.
COVID-19 Situation in Malaysia
Currently, 84.2% of people in Malaysia have been vaccinated. Almost half of Malaysia have also received their booster shots.
In addition to that, the number of COVID-19 cases and related deaths have also fallen, with 2,067 cases reported yesterday (7 September), down from the 2,356 cases recorded at the start of the month on 1 September.
The seven-day average of COVID-19 deaths in Malaysia has also decreased to just five deaths.
As for hospitalisation, just 20% of the total hospital beds and intensive care wards that prioritise COVID-19 patients over others are being used for now.
And oh, despite this news, it’s likely that Malaysians would still wear their masks. Just watch this video to the end and you’d understand:
Featured Image: Shutterstock.com / Hazreen Mohd