INTERSTATE travel for the Hari Raya holiday remains out of bounds under the conditional movement control order.

Those who are stranded in their hometowns following the March 18 MCO are permitted to travel back to the places where they live and work, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced today in a Labour Day address on TV.

He said it was not permissible to travel back to the hometowns for Hari Raya.

“All schools, colleges and institutions of higher learning will also remain closed,” he said.

Muhiyiddin said public transport companies must be prepared to maintain hygiene standards as more people would be commuting following the relaxation of restrictions on Monday.

“We have to control the transmission of Covid-19 and must avoid congestion at the bus, LRT and MRT stations.

“There must be action taken by operators of public transport companies to control the movement of people and to avoid crowds.”

The relaxation of MCO restrictions starting Monday will see “nearly all” economic sectors allowed to resume work except for those whose operations entail large gatherings and close contact.

Those that are open must strictly observe standard operating procedures for health to prevent new Covid-19 infections.

To ease congestion at public transport hubs, Muhyiddin said employers should allow flexible working hours as well as alternate days scheduling for staff. 

“Not all employees need to come to work at the same time. So we hope to discourage everyone from rushing to the office at the same time.”

Public transport users and operators are advised to wear a mask at all times.

“There is always the chance of exposure to the virus. So take precautionary steps to protect yourself. Wear a mask and keep one or two more in the bag.  Always carry hand sanitiser to use if necessary.” – May 1, 2020.