MCO helps inculcate moderation during Ramadan

Although the atmosphere in welcoming Ramadan is a bit different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which is affecting most countries in the world, it does not prevent the Muslims from fulfilling the third pillar of Islam in the new normal situation.

As on normal days during the MCO, the regulations remain the same and the order for the people to stay at home stays to ensure the chain of the COVID-19 infection is completely stopped.

After the announcement on the first day of fasting by the Keeper of the Rulers Seal, Tan Sri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, the Muslims are already prepared for it, despite the constraints of not being able to do the normal, like performing the congregational prayers, including Friday and terawih prayer, as well as the five times a day obligatory prayers , at mosques and suraus, in complying with the MCO.

Thus, Muslims are called to carry out all their "ibadah" (religious activities) and other Ramadan tradition at home to, among others, strengthen family ties by preparing their own meals for the breaking of fast and "sahur" (predawn meal) and praying with family members.

The absence of the usual Ramadan bazaars and buffets may also be a blessing as it can avoid wastage of food, but with the availability of online order and delivery service, the people are advised to not follow their heart and cravings for food.

In a move to facilitate the public to obtain their food supply, the government has allowed operation of public markets to be extended from 6.00 am to 2.00 pm during Ramadan, from 6.00 am to noon previously during MCO.

Public vehicles are also allowed to operate from 4.00 pm to 10.00pm, compared to 5.00pm to 10.00pm previously.

Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 positive cases in the country throughout the week has remained at two figures, but it should not be taken as a 'green light' for the public to defy the MCO.

As announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, in his address last night, the MCO, which is scheduled until April 28, has been extended until May 12,

However, he said, if the COVID-19 cases continued to register a marked decrease, the government might ease the movement control in stages in several sectors, including the social sector.

The question on whether the MCO will be extended depends on the public's compliance to the MCO.

So, be a responsible society to together eliminate COVID-19.