More details on MCO, Raya guidelines needed, says MMA

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) said more clarity is needed on SOPs for the reinstated movement control order (MCO) in six districts in Selangor from tomorrow.

Its president, Dr Subramaniam Muniandy, said there should also be more clarity on the SOPs for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations on May 13.

“Proper guidelines should be given for Hari Raya prayers in mosques and suraus and family visits, especially for those living in smaller houses or apartments where it can be difficult to observe physical distancing,” he told FMT.

Family visits will be allowed during Hari Raya in all areas under different MCOs except those under enhanced MCO.

Senior minister for security Ismail Sabri Yaakob said at a press conference yesterday that in MCO areas, visits will be allowed only on the first day of Hari Raya. This is limited to 15 guests at any given time, subject to the size of the house.

Muniandy said the government should conduct targeted community screenings to detect cases and isolate them as soon as possible, along with the movement restrictions.

He called on the government to rope in private practitioners if there is a lack of resources and manpower for the targeted screenings.

“The government should fully utilise all available digital technology through Hotspot Identification and Dynamic Engagement (HIDE) and MySejahtera to find, test, trace, isolate and support in its Covid-19 response,” he said.

“MMA wishes to remind the public that the fight against Covid-19 is a collective responsibility. All must ensure they do their part in strictly adhering to the SOPs.”

The Hulu Langat, Petaling, Gombak, Klang, Kuala Langat and Sepang districts in Selangor will go under MCO until May 17.

The other three districts – Kuala Selangor, Sabak Bernam and Hulu Selangor – will remain under conditional movement control order. — Free Malaysia Today