Usage of Face Masks Indoors Now No Longer Mandatory

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The use of face masks is no longer mandatory indoors but is still mandatory for individuals with symptoms and confirmed positive for Covid-19.

This was announced by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin who said it will take effect immediately.

“Based on the assessment of the current situation of Covid-19 and taking into account the current needs, the wearing of face masks inside a building is now optional. However, the owner of the premises can determine whether visitors must wear a face mask, or can choose to wear a face mask,” he said in a press conference after officiating the 2022 IGBA-MOPI Conference yesterday.

Also present was Director General of Health Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

Commenting further, Khairy said that wearing a face mask is still mandatory for positive cases of Covid-19.

In addition, he said, it is also mandatory when using public transport services such as buses, trains, taxis including e-hailing services, airplanes, buses, employee vans and school vans as well as in health facilities.

“The Malaysian Ministry of Health (KKM) strongly encourages the continued use of face masks especially when in crowded areas such as night markets, stadiums, shopping malls and houses of worship. This also includes individuals with symptoms such as fever, cough and cold, high-risk individuals such as the elderly, people with chronic diseases, individuals with low immunity and pregnant women and doing activities with high-risk people,” he said.

Starting May 1, the Ministry of Health announced the relaxation of wearing face masks when they are no longer mandatory outside buildings and open areas, but face masks are still mandatory when inside buildings and on public transport including e-hailing.

The enforcement of the use of face masks is based on provisions in the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).

Source: Awani