Toughing it out
With the number of new Covid-19 cases breaching the 9,000 mark and a record high of 98 deaths, those who once argued against a total lockdown have accepted that it is needed in these critical times. But they have called for immediate steps to mitigate the economic risk, including a loan repayment moratorium, financial support, wage subsidy programme and help with utilities.
PETALING JAYA: In a sharp spike, Malaysia recorded a new high of 98 deaths from Covid-19 in a day, bringing the total fatalities to 2,650.
Malaysia also continued its upward streak of new daily Covid19 cases, this time pushing to a daily high of 9,020 new infections.
All of the 98 deceased in the 24-hour span yesterday were Malaysians, with most deaths from Selangor (27), followed by Johor (14) and Kuala Lumpur (14).
Kedah and Negri Sembilan each recorded eight fatalities.
The latest grim figures surpassed the previous record high of 63 deaths on Wednesday.
“There are 23 new clusters, bringing the number of active clusters at present to 630,” said Health directorgeneral Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah in his daily statement yesterday.
Of the 23, eight were related to workplaces, while another eight were involving community clusters. Six others involved religious activities and one was linked to an education institution.
Dr Noor Hisham said the country is facing a challenge from community clusters emerging, especially sub-clusters involving festivals.
“From May 13 to 28, there were 26 clusters that originated from Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
“Such clusters are expected to increase and involve more states and districts,” said Dr Noor Hisham.
“Even though the government has restricted visiting and celebrations, many people still ignore this directive and this has caused such clusters, resulting in deaths.
“As such, the Health Ministry urges the public not to repeat such behaviour for the coming Kaamatan and Hari Gawai celebrations.”