Don’t let your guard down, KJ urges Klang Valley folk enjoying NRP Phase 2 ‘freedom’

KUALA LUMPUR – Being fully vaccinated against Covid-19 is not an excuse to be lax in heeding the standard operating procedures, said Khairy Jamaluddin in a message to Klang Valley residents.

The health minister in a Facebook post today said following the announcement that Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya would enter Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) last Friday, many people took their families, including young children, on outings to shopping malls, and even picnics at recreational parks, over the weekend.

“I understand that many are excited about this relaxation, especially after three months of being under Phase 1 of NRP and the movement control order before that.

“However, such activities inevitably lead to gatherings and low SOP compliance. 

“It is important for me to remind you that being fully vaccinated is not an excuse for us to be complacent when it comes to observing the SOPs, like wearing a mask, maintaining physical distancing, and washing our hands regularly. 

“These actions seem simple, but they are able to protect us from Covid-19.” 

He said an analysis by the ministry showed that infections in the Klang Valley are declining, a positive development to ensure NRP runs smoothly and safely. 

“I’ve previously spoken several times about the government’s target to start moving into the endemic phase by the end of October. 

“However, to realise this target, it requires the cooperation of the whole nation to continue complying with the SOPs. 

“If this fails to be practised, my concern is that we will not be able to move into the endemic phase, thus hampering the government’s recovery efforts. 

“I would like to emphasise that the success of bringing the country out of the pandemic phase does not depend solely on the efforts and strategies of the government, but also very much on the community’s level of compliance with the SOPs.”

The coronavirus situation may very well worsen if the public takes the matter lightly, he warned.

“In this regard, I sincerely hope that the whole of society takes advantage of the relaxation granted by continuing to adopt the culture of new norms in our daily lives.

“Remember, the success of curbing the pandemic involves comprehensive involvement from both the government and the people.” – The Vibes, September 14, 2021