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KUALA LUMPUR – During the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays, some 200,000 individuals managed to bypass roadblocks to return to their hometowns, said Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
“When we implemented the inter-district and interstate travel ban, many were angry. Some even used various methods to return to their hometowns. We understand there were up to 200,000 individuals who managed to get past police roadblocks by giving various reasons.
“In the end, after Hari Raya, we found many clusters, and identified cases (where those who crossed state lines) have had their family members dying from the virus.”
The senior minister also urged Malaysians to be honest when applying for police approvals to cross state or district lines, adding that he has been informed by police that some of the requests raised doubts.
“There are cases when an individual really wants to visit a sick family member. But because the police were being extra careful due to suspicious claims, they may not get permission to travel.
“We may be able to cheat the police, but not Covid-19.”
On the issue of travel permissions, Ismail Sabri added that those who are currently using letters from the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) or their employers, the approvals would lapse tomorrow.
Those who need to travel for work purposes, will have to get permission letters from their respective ministries.
When asked if long-distance couples would be allowed to cross state or district borders to visit their significant others, he replied in negative.
“Malaysians now need to sacrifice. Some are required to close their shops or factories for two weeks. Similarly, we have decided that there would be no interstate and inter-district travel for long-distance couples.” – The Vibes, May 30, 2021
