On 1st August, it will be compulsory for Malaysians to wear face masks in public places, namely in public transportation and in crowded spaces. If caught without a mask, the authorities can impose a fine of RM1,000.
However, Selangor wants to take it a step further and implement the wearing of masks at all times in public places.
Selangor Covid-19 Task Force Council head Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that everyone in Selangor would be required to wear a mask as long as they are in a public place, whether it is crowded or not. He mentioned that the virus was still in the community after two cases of local transmission in Gombak and Hulu Langat were recorded.
In an interview with Astro Awani on 22nd July, he said that Selangor has “set the use of face masks as mandatory, especially in public places, except when at home or in the car.”
“I hope there is no second wave, but the cases in Gombak and Hulu Langat show that the virus is still in our community.”
On 21st July, Dr Dzulkefly said that the task force met up and discussed concerns about the careless attitude of Malaysians towards the Covid-19 outbreak in the country.
“We see that our society has started to get complacent, comfortable and getting back to their old ways. This is very worrying,” he said.
“We need to know that when we wear a face mask, not only are we protecting ourselves, but others too.”
“Members of the public must adhere to the standard operating procedure set by the ministry, especially on the use of face masks, exercise vigilance and not to revert to previous bad habits.”
“Don’t be relaxed, don’t think that we are back to normal.”
However, the former Health Minister did not mention any deadline for compliance or any penalties for non-compliance, according to The Star.
Also read: JUST IN: Usage of Face Mask Will Be Mandatory in Certain Public Places Starting 1st August