KUALA LUMPUR – Masks are only compulsory in crowded public places, said Senior Security Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Admitting that there was still confusion on the standard operating procedures (SOP) for masks, the minister said today that masks are not necessary if one is alone and is physically distancing.
“There are many public places including parks, but if you are alone there is no need to wear a mask because it is only compulsory in crowded public places. In crowded markets, buses and LRT, it is a must to wear face masks.
“But if you are alone or there is physical distancing between those present, for example in restaurants, it is not necessary to wear masks. You can’t eat with your mask on,” he told a news conference on the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) here today.
Ismail Sabri made the clarification after a viral social media report of an individual who was summoned for not wearing a face mask despite being alone in a public area.
Beginning August 1, face masks were made compulsory in crowded public places, and offenders were threatened with a RM1,000 fine under Act 342 (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988).
Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said local authorities must be firm on owners of entertainment outlets who fail to adhere to SOPs, calling on them to withdraw their operating licences.
He said there had been arrests involving entertainment centres almost daily, with many reminders and notices also issued.
“The government order is clear, that is entertainment centres are not allowed to resume operations yet and are still under the list of prohibited businesses,” he added. – Bernama, December 15, 2020
