Face mask only compulsory in crowded public places

KUALA LUMPUR: The wearing of face masks is only compulsory in crowded public places, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Admitting that there was still confusion on the wearing of face masks as part of the Covid-19 standard operating procedure (SOP), he said it was not necessary if one was alone and practised physical 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 yesterday.

Ismail Sabri made this clarification after viral social media report of an individual who was summoned for not wearing a face mask although he was alone in a public area.

Beginning Aug 1, the wearing of face masks was made compulsory in crowded public places, and offenders are liable to a RM1,000 fine under Act 342 (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988).

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri urged local authorities to be firm by withdrawing the licences of owners of entertainment outlets who still refused to abide by the SOP.

He said there had been arrests involving entertainment centres almost daily although many reminders and notices had been issued.

“The government order is clear, that is night clubs and entertainment centres are not allowed to resume operations yet and are still under the prohibited list,” he added.