KUALA LUMPUR − The plan to reopen the country safely in stages will be a turning point for all industries, especially sports, which has been affected since the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March 2020.
While welcoming the news of the “transition to endemic” phase starting April 1, Malaysian Football League (MFL) president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan is confident that it would provide Malaysians in various industries, including football, with a huge boost.
“The MFL would like to thank the Health Ministry and the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), who have always supported the course of national football, especially the Malaysia League (M-League) during the pandemic.
“Of course, MFL welcomes the Prime Minister’s announcement. The public too have been waiting for this announcement, which I believe will be a turning point for all Malaysians,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced on Tuesday that Malaysia will enter the “transition to endemic” phase − which offers more flexibility to various sectors and reopens the country’s borders − beginning April 1.
The relaxation includes the abolition of the 50% capacity limit set for activities involving large gatherings, such as spectator attendance at stadiums.
Previously, the sports industry was badly hit by pandemic prevention measures, including cancellation of competitions, strict rules in organising tournaments and limited attendance of spectators.
Meanwhile, MFL chief executive officer Stuart Ramalingam believes more strides can be made now to generate more benefits for the economy with the transition to normal operations.
“The MFL, clubs and supporters have always supported the government’s decision and, of course, MFL are also one of the organisations working hard for the economy and, at the same time, act to curb the pandemic from spreading throughout the M-League,” he said.
Stuart also said the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for spectator entry into stadiums would remain for now, adding that it would be amended with further updates from KBS. – Bernama, March 10, 2022
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