Malaysia Announced MCO Extension So Citizens Can Be Better-Prepared
1 week ago, Malaysia implemented the Movement Control Order (MCO) which prohibited citizens from exiting the country and barred foreigners from entering.
M’sia On Lockdown From 18-31 Mar, No Citizen Leaves & No Foreigner In
On Wednesday (25 Mar), Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin announced that the MCO will be extended for another 2 weeks, until 14 Apr.
MCO extended as Covid-19 numbers likely to continue
According to The Straits Times, the decision to extend the order was made as Covid-19 infections are likely to continue before numbers start to fall.
The announcement to extend the MCO was made “earlier” so Malaysians can be better-prepared.
PM Muhyiddin added that the measure is the “only way to contain the situation” which seems to be escalating day by day.
During the period, Malaysians are not allowed to leave the country while visitors are prohibited from entering the country.
All premises, public and private will also have to be closed, apart from those providing essential services.
These services include:
- Water
- Electric
- Energy
- Telecommunications
- Post
- Transportation
- Water services
- Oil, gas, fuel
- Broadcasting
- Financial
- Banking
- Health
- Pharmacy
- Fire and Rescue Department
- Prison
- Ports & airports
- Security & defence
- Cleaning
- Retail and food supplies.
Despite the order, Malaysians continue to defy the government’s instructions, leaving their homes and hanging out at food establishments.
In light of this, the Malaysian army was deployed on Sunday (22 Mar) to patrol the streets to enforcement purposes.
Just 2 days ago, PM Muhyiddin said the government is considering extending the MCO by up to 2 weeks.
Hope Malaysians will adhere to the orders
We hope Malaysians will adhere to the government’s instructions and stay at home during this critical period.
While it might seem inconvenient and troublesome, this might be the circuit breaker the nation needs to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, which has infected nearly 1,800 and claimed 17 lives.
Featured image adapted from Instagram.
