Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today called on every Malaysian to stay united in fighting COVID-19 as the pandemic is far from over.
The Prime Minister said if everyone managed to overcome this challenge, the spread of the pandemic could be contained with the mercy of Allah.
“Let me remind you that the war on COVID-19 is not yet over. The fight is still on. We are doing well so far, so just uplift your spirit and continue to fight. If we persevere, Insya-Allah we will win,” he said in his special address to the people aired live on national television today.
“For that, let us take good care of our personal health, our families, and the people around us by staying compliant with the MCO,” he said.
While announcing that the government has decided to extend the MCO for another two weeks from April 15 to 28, Muhyiddin also reminded himself of his responsibilities in protecting the lives of the people in the country.
“As Prime Minister, I’m responsible for protecting the lives of all Malaysians. Each life is valuable, be it of a baby, a youngster, an adult, or even a senior citizen, all lives are valuable. A life lost to this virus is not just a loss for the husband, the wife, the children or the close family members, but also a huge loss for the country,” he said.
At the same time, Muhyiddin also praised the people for the increased level of MCO compliance, which has now reached 97 per cent.
“I’m lucky because all of you are well-disciplined and law-abiding citizens. The level of MCO compliance in the country is high and this shows that all of you understand the importance of personal health and safety,” he said
Repeating his call for the people to stay at home throughout the MCO period, Muhyiddin, however, said that family activities should continue as usual, besides practising social distancing and observing personal hygiene.
“I hope all of you are safe and sound with your family at home. For those who are working, work well and take care of your health. Always practise social distancing, observe personal hygiene and when you get home, don’t forget to take a shower first before participating in your family activity,” he said.
The Prime Minister said every Malaysian would enter the ‘new normal’ phase of life where they will no longer be able to do what they were used to, including offering a simple handshake.
“Prior to this, a handshake is a normal thing to do when we greet each other. It would be considered awkward or impolite if we don’t do it. But it’s different now. Now we have to decline a handshake to avoid coronavirus infection,” he explained.
Apart from that, he said the people also have to get used to frequently washing their hands with soap or hand sanitizer and using a face mask to contain the spread of COVID-19.
“There are many other examples that I don’t have to mention because I think you know the meaning of the ‘new normal’ things that we have to get used to in our lives now,” he said.
About the upcoming fasting month, Muhyiddin said due to the extension of the MCO, Muslims in the country will not be able to go to their usual Ramadan bazaar to buy food for the breaking of fast, let alone to flock the mosques for Tarawih prayer.
“So, just perform the prayer with your family at home. We may not even be able to return to our hometown for the time being. As hard as it may seem, this is the reality that we have to face,” he added.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Fri Apr 10 2020
MUHYIDDIN: The level of MCO compliance in the country is high and this shows that all of you understand the importance of personal health and safety. - BERNAMA
Former special forces commander Prabowo to take up Indonesian presidency
Indonesia's Prabowo Subianto will take over as president of the world's third-largest democracy after sweeping the country's election with policies like free meals for school children
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Trump says he would impose tariffs on China if China went into Taiwan
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump said he would impose additional tariffs on China if China were to "go into Taiwan,"
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.