Anthony Loke: Face Masks Encouraged In Public Transport Amidst COVID-19, Not Mandatory

The incidence of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia has been on a concerning upward trend in recent times. The nation is grappling with a surge in infections, prompting heightened attention and efforts to curb the spread of the virus. The government has urged the community to prioritize their health and stay precaution. Given that a considerable number of individuals rely on public transportation for their daily commute to work, there is a prevailing uncertainty regarding the mandatory nature of wearing face masks in such settings.

While the government has advocated for the use of face masks as a preventive measure, a clear directive specifying the compulsory nature of wearing face masks on public transportation remains ambiguous. This lack of clarity has led to confusion among commuters who are uncertain about the specific requirements for face mask usage during their daily journeys.

Following that, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said, the wearing of face masks on public transport is not compulsory for not now, but it is encouraged following the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the country. Any policies or rules regarding face mask usage can only be established by the Ministry of Health(MOH). The Ministry of Transport will not set our own policy.

He also stated that, as of now, the obligation to wear face masks while utilizing public transportation has not been enforced; rather, it is merely being advocated for to the reporters after officiating the China(ChongQing)-Malaysia New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor Regional Cooperation and Exchange Conference today.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad announced yesterday that, despite the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Malaysia, the government currently has no plans to reintroduce measures like the Movement Control Order (MCO).

The situation was still under control, and healthcare facilities were not burdened, as a result of strengthening the COVID-19 Management Plan, which outlines five main strategies, he said.

During the 50th Epidemiology Week (ME), spanning from December 10 to December 16, a total of 20,696 COVID-19 cases were reported. This reflects a notable rise of 62.2% when compared to the 12,757 cases recorded during ME-49.

Source: Bernama