Parliament sitting: MOH advises government based on development of COVID-19

The Ministry of Health (MOH) will only act to advise the government based on the current developments of COVID-19.

Referring to the May 18 sitting of the Dewan Rakyat, Health Director-General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said that apart from advice on COVID-19, other aspects especially involving government policies do not fall under the ministry's jurisdiction.

"On the parliamentary session (May 18), the MOH advises the government based on the COVID-19 data and facts. So, for example the COVID-19 case, whether it is increasing or decreasing, we need to advise the government based on the development of COVID-19 in the country.

"But more than that, it is not the authority of MOH to advise the government on policies and such," he said at a press conference here on Monday.

The MOH is also ready to conduct a COVID-19 screening of MPs who will attend the Dewan Rakyat sitting for only a day.

"It's part of the new normal now. Whether you go to parliament, restaurants, or any other institution, you will be screened and will need to do social distancing and keep clean.

"For example, you are not supposed to shake hands anymore. Not only to parliamentary sessions but for all occasions," he added.