MCO may return if new daily Covid-19 cases hit three figures

The movement control order (MCO) might have to be reimposed if the daily new Covid-19 infection numbers reach three figures, said senior minister (security cluster) Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Speaking to reporters in Kota Bharu today, Ismail (above) said the government might be left with no choice but to do so.

"Case numbers have been increasing... the Health Ministry said this was due to negligence (among Malaysians).

"We hope it is still not too late (to keep case numbers low)," he said.

A large number of new Covid-19 clusters have emerged in recent weeks while the R-naught had crept above 1, which meant that the virus was spreading again after being contained earlier this month.

In Terengganu, state health exco member Dr Alias Razak publicly complained yesterday that most people in the state were not adhering to social distancing requirements or wearing masks.

Alias said he observed people shaking hands and remarked that guidelines were only properly observed in mosques and surau.

Ismail said guidelines for Aidiladha celebrations next weekend would only be announced tomorrow.

"We are worried that during the rituals, there will be no social distancing and that feasts would be held," he said.

Inter-state travel is still allowed for now, unless a decision is made otherwise before the guidelines are released tomorrow.

Ismail urged the public to treat themselves as "frontliners" in the battle against Covid-19 by adhering to the guidelines and ensuring others do the same.