KUALA LUMPUR – Perlis will reimpose mandatory masking for food and beverage operators’ workers in anticipation of a possible increase in Covid-19 cases.
The state government in a statement last night said this was among its precautionary measures following the detection of virus variants in Malaysia brought in by travellers from China.
Besides compulsory masking by eatery operators and workers, the public are also urged to do the same when they are in crowded public places, it added.
“The public are also urged to wash their hands regularly and also return to using hand sanitisers while being out in public places,” the state government added.
The state has followed Selangor’s similar mask mandate for food and beverage workers, which took effect last Sunday and is enforced through local municipal councils.
On Monday, Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said two main Covid-19 variants, which account for the bulk of variants in China recently, have been detected in Malaysia. They are called the BA. 5.2 and BF.7 variants.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said tighter standard operating procedures are being planned for all foreign inbound travellers to Malaysia, so as not to discriminate.
Current measures announced so far include testing sewage on aircraft inbound from China for Covid-19.
As for travellers, those arriving from China at international ports of entry will be screened for fever and asked to self-declare their symptoms.
Those with symptoms will be referred to quarantine centres or a health facility for further examination and Covid-19 testing.
Anwar also urged Malaysians to get their booster shots as added protection. – The Vibes, January 5, 2023
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