Everyone must continue to fight COVID-19 - Muhyiddin

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.