Nobody is allowed to continue the tradition of visiting family members, relatives and loved ones starting the second day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri (25th May) under MCO regulations.
Initially, the government allowed visits on the first day of Hari Raya, as long as citizens obeyed the SOPs that were put into place (e.g. no more than 20 visitors per household, social distancing, maintaining personal hygiene). However, according to sources from BERNAMA and the Star, some Malaysians refused to comply and still violated the MCO to travel back to their hometowns.
Nonetheless, majority of Malaysians adjusted to the new normal for Hari Raya this year. As Muslims were encouraged to perform the tradition of Aidilfitri prayers and sermons from their own homes, the usually filled mosques and graveyards were empty on the first day of Syawal this year.
While visitations bring together families, it would also put many at risk of contracting the virus-especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
Even Defence Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, reminded the public that they have been reminded several times to avoid gathering with others as much as possible. Countries who exercised flexibility in allowing social visits faced a rise in Covid-19 infections, as in the example of Bahrain, and New Jersey.
To protect themselves and their loved ones, Muslims have been advised to follow the SOPs and adjust to the “new normal” this Hari Raya.
Happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all who are celebrating. Stay safe!
Also read: Defence Minister: “No More Interstate Travel From Now On”
