Thanks to the decline in COVID-19 positive cases, Malaysia has now entered the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) phase, which is expected to last from June 10th to August 31st 2020. We take a look at what this means.
In an announcement by Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, the premier mentioned that due to the decline in daily positive COVID-19 cases, Malaysia can now enter the Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Pemulihan (PKPP) phase, or the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO). You can now rejoice, as there will be a lot fewer restrictions in this new phase.
So, what’s new?
Most sectors of the economy will be allowed to reopen during the RMCO. This includes barbershops, hair salons, and beauty parlours. Yes, you can finally look decent again. All markets will also be allowed to reopen — this includes morning markets and night markets. Previously restricted sectors that were not allowed to operate during the CMCO will gradually reopen in stages, with a few caveats. Businesses can also operate at their previous regular hours. Of course, there are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed. In the coming days, these will be announced according to its sectors.
What can I do for entertainment then?
The Prime Minister announced that museums can now reopen, so you can get your dose of cultural knowledge. Other activities including indoor busking, fishing, and the like are now allowed.
Also, you can travel domestically now.
What? I can travel now?!
Yes. Interstate travels are now allowed, except for red zone areas. You can now visit your family, but do be mindful of visiting geriatrics, as they are the most high-risk people to contract COVID-19.
The premier also stated that domestic travels are now allowed, which means Cuti-Cuti Malaysia is officially on. If you need to satisfy that wanderlust, now’s a great time to get to know Malaysia better.
Unfortunately, international travel is still banned.
Tell me more about work and school.
Workshops and meetings are now allowed, as long as social distancing is in place. Ensure these gatherings are scaled according to the room size, and practise good social hygiene. That means masks on and hands clean.
Schools, on the other hand, will be reopened gradually based on the health ministry’s recommendations. More on this to be finalised in the coming weeks.
Religious activities
For Muslims, you are allowed to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha and attend small religious sermons. Larger religious gatherings will be commented on later.
Sounds like a lot of restrictions have been lifted. But what isn’t allowed still?
Pubs, nightclubs, karaoke outlets, theme parks, and reflexology centres need to remain closed for now, until further notice. Open houses, weddings, and any activity that entails a large crowd of people in an area are also not allowed.
For a comprehensive list of restrictions in place, visit the Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia Facebook page.
This article first appeared in Lifestyle Asia KL.
