KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has been in the 'Transition to Endemic' Phase since April 1, which sees the resumption of many economic sectors and activities, as well as the presence of people everywhere.
With the transition to endemicity comes easing of restrictions and standard operating procedures (SOP) previously imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19, paving the way for most activities including prayer gatherings to be held as normal.
However, health experts caution the public to not take this for granted and also to not downplay the deadly risks of the virus which is still present in the community.
Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases at Universiti Malaya, Prof Datuk Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, when contacted by Bernama, reminded Malaysians to always wear a face mask wherever they are, particularly in indoor areas and crowded open spaces, such as Ramadan bazaars.
She added that the SARS-CoV-2 virus (which causes COVID-19 infection) predominantly spreads through the air and as such, it is crucial for such places to have a good ventilation system.
"Hotels that hold breaking of fast functions should ensure that the ventilation in the restaurant and hotel spaces is good..
"Similarly in mosques and suraus, it is best to open all doors and windows," Dr Adeeba advised.
She also urged eligible individuals to ensure that their doses of the COVID-19 inoculation are completed, including booster doses.
Occupational health, emergency and public health expert from Hospital Kasih Cyberjaya, Dr Hanafiah Bashirun said that everyone needs to keep themselves on their toes and comply to the three basic SOPs, which are to wear a face mask, maintain physical distancing and frequently sanitise the hands.
He said this will be a necessary habit if the nation is to move forward to the full endemic phase.
"It doesn't matter that the phase has changed, the SOP basically remain, that is wearing face masks, physical distancing and regular use of sanitisers. The bottom line is that we must comply (with the SOP) because the goal is to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
"However, if we really want to go in the endemic direction, then we must be good at taking care of ourselves and adhere to the three basic SOP," he said.
Meanwhile, senior lecturer and epidemiologist from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Associate Prof Dr Malina Osman said that the transition to endemicity is a trial phase to ensure safe entrance to the full endemic phase.
She added, apart from continuing efforts in vaccination, all efforts in SOP adherence as advised by the Health Ministry (MOH) need commitment from all individuals in the community as well as cooperation from all organisations.
"Wearing masks, care for hand hygiene and avoiding crowds should always be in place whenever in public areas," she said.
Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has reminded the public to remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19 in the transition to the endemic phase by continuing to wear a face mask to prevent infection.
He said that wearing a face mask was one of the preventive measures that could reduce the spread of the virus, especially in high-risk areas such as indoor places with poor ventilation, crowded places, and places where individuals have close-range interactions.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Mon Apr 11 2022
Health experts caution the public to not take the easing of restrictions for granted and also to not downplay the deadly risks of the virus which is still present in the community. - Astro AWANI
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.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.