It looks like we’re not going to see the end of the Movement Control Order (MCO) anytime soon.
On June 10, the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) was introduced as a way to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus by keeping our borders closed and restrict international travel to keep the virus out.
Photo via TODAY Online
Though it was expected to end on 31 August, the Ministry of Health is now suggesting that it be further extended in light of the current COVID-19 situation in the country.
According to the New Straits Times, the Health Ministry suggested to both the National Security Council and the Prime Minister’s Office to give an extension of the MCO period, especially after the World Health Organisation's forecast that this pandemic could last up to two years.
Health Minister, Datuk Seri Adham Baba said: For the RMCO, which will end on August 31, the Health Ministry has made a recommendation to MKN and also to the Prime Minister for it to continue until the situation is under control.”
“We can see certain countries are still struggling with an increasing number of cases while we, here, are still strengthening and controlling the country’s entry points and borders,” he added.
Photo via New Straits Times
However, the final decision as to whether the MCO period will be further extended will depend on the Prime Minister’s decision, pending an announcement from his office.
Malaysia has now seen a surge of new clusters, like the Sivagangga Cluster which has led to the spread of a new strain of COVID-19 that is found to be 10 times more infectious than the ones previously identified in local patients.
As of yesterday (23 August), Malaysia recorded a total of 9,267 positive COVID-19 cases, with 125 deaths.
Let’s not take this lightly, guys! Wear a facemask when you’re out and about and don’t forget to maintain social distancing from other people.
We don’t want another MCO!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
