[UPDATED] Johor to enter Phase 3, Pahang to Phase 4

KUALA LUMPUR – The Covid-19 Pandemic Management Special Committee meeting, today, has agreed to allow the transition of both Johor and Pahang under the National Recovery Plan.

In a statement, today, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said Johor will transition from Phase 2 to Phase 3 while Pahang will transition from Phase 3 to Phase 4.

“The standard operating procedures (SOP)s for states entering Phases 3 and 4 are the same as set before.”

Additionally, Hishammuddin said the committee has agreed to allow restrictions to be loosened in states in the second and third phases starting Saturday.
 
Wholesale markets will be allowed to operate in accordance with licences and permits set by their respective local governments.  
 
Workers at these markets must have completed full vaccination and comply with existing SOPs.
 
Hishamuddin also said that the thaali ceremony for weddings at Hindu temples and matrimonial ceremonies for Christians will also be allowed.
 
“The National Unity Ministry will inform the Hindu and Christian associations on SOPs that need to be followed,” he said.
 
He added that public auctions for collateral items from pawnshops registered under the Housing and Local Government Ministry will be allowed, with several conditions.
 
All workers and bidders at auctions must be fully vaccinated. A total of 54 auctioneers have been identified across the country, he said, adding that the auctions are limited to only 30 minutes per session on the first and seventh days of each month.
 
He also said that the tobacco sector, including its supply chain activities, will be allowed to operate in states under Phase 2 and above.
 
Individual self-assessment vital
 
Hishammuddin said in the government’s move to reopen sectors, it is most important not to be complacent or have lackadaisical attitudes.
 
“Despite all the relaxations announced, the reality we face is that we are forced to live with the Covid-19 virus,” he said.
 
“Therefore, in addition to continuing to comply with SOPs, it is important for all of us to improve our self-assessment, not only to protect ourselves but also the surrounding community.”
 
Firstly, people who experience symptoms such as cold, fever and cough must immediately undertake Covid-19 screening.
 
They should report the test results via the MySejahtera app as soon as possible.
 
If they are found to be positive, Hishammuddin said they must be isolated immediately and abide by the home surveillance order (HSO) SOPs set by the Health Ministry.
 
Additionally, those who are infected with Covid-19 must inform the relevant authorities if their health situation deteriorates while under quarantine, and seek treatment at nearby medical centres if they experience severe symptoms. – The Vibes, October 6, 2021