KUALA LUMPUR – The Klang Valley will be upgraded to Phase 3 of the National Recovery Plan, while Kedah has moved into Phase 2, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
In a statement, Ismail Sabri, who also chairs the government’s Special Committee on the Covid-19 Pandemic Management, said this will come into effect starting Friday.
“This transition of phases was made after taking into account the current risk assessment by the Health Ministry (MoH) and National Security Council (NSC),” he said.
“Based on the decision of the committee that allowed the transition from Phase 1 to Phase 2 for Kedah, this means there are no more states under Phase 1 nationwide.”
Ismail Sabri’s announcement means that Kedah has joined Penang, Perak, Kelantan, Johor and Sabah in Phase 2.
The Klang Valley areas of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor, as well as Melaka, have been placed alongside Perlis, Pahang, Terengganu and Sarawak in Phase 3.
Meanwhile, Negri Sembilan and Labuan remain in Phase 4.
In the statement, Ismail Sabri also announced the relaxation of several restrictions.
He said official and private events, including launches and workshops, will be allowed in states under Phase 2 and Phase 3.
He said the easing of these restrictions are under the condition that guests have completed vaccinations and venues are set at 50% capacity.
Those yet to be vaccinated need to undergo pre-entry testing for Covid-19 in the presence of the organiser or a medical practitioner.
He said the skills training sector, including industrial training centres and vocational colleges, will be allowed to operate in line with other higher learning institutions effective October 15.
Ismail Sabri added that spectators will also be able to attend sports and other and recreational events in Phase 2, Phase 3 and Phase 4 states.
This also comes under the condition that those in attendance have completed their vaccinations and wear masks throughout the match. However, eating and drinking will not be allowed in stadiums.
He added that children under the age of 18 will also not be allowed to attend the matches.
Ismail Sabri said the standard operating procedures (SOPs) with the relaxation of rules can be found on the NSC’s website.
The prime minister also warned of stern action against a individuals who flout the Home Surveillance Order (HSO), saying the government takes the matter seriously.
“Individuals found guilty will be subject to stern action. These irresponsible actions can put public safety at risk, as well as affect the government’s efforts to address this pandemic.” – The Vibes, September 29, 2021