ALTERNATIVES to Ramadan bazaars should be considered for when the fasting month begins in three weeks, said Director-General of Health Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah today.

“Maybe we can do e-bazaars, online bazaars, or drive-through bazaars.

“This will prevent large crowds from gathering in one place and ensure social distancing (is observed),” he said in the Health Ministry’s daily press conference on the Covid-19 pandemic in Putrajaya.

He was commenting on Federal Territories Minister Annuar Musa’s statement that a decision on whether to hold Ramadan bazaars this year has yet to be made.

Annuar tweeted that local authorities will brief him on their proposals on Friday.

He said any decision made will be guided by the Health Ministry and National Security Council.

Dr Noor Hisham said alternatives to Ramadan bazaars should be presented to the ministry for vetting.

“We are open to new ideas. These can be channelled to the ministry.

“We will then look at our guidelines before approving any new ideas.”

The fasting month begins on April 23, a little over a week after the movement-control order (MCO) to stem the spread of Covid-19 is due to end on April 14.

On whether people can return to their hometowns for the Raya celebrations, Dr Noor Hisham said it is too early to predict whether infections can be brought under control by then.

“But based on our data, it is showing signs that it can be controlled.

“Most importantly, for the next two weeks, we must all adhere to the MCO.” – April 1, 2020.