COVID-19 testing is compulsory for actors and film production crews only if one of them becomes infected, Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said today.

He urged production companies to screen film crew and talent, but said the government was not making it compulsory.

“If a Covid-19 infection is later detected, then it will become compulsory to screen everyone.

“Each production company should also appoint a safety supervisor to ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed while shooting on location,” the defence minister and National Security Council spokesman said at the daily briefing on Covid-19 security matters.

Among the procedures for film production crews is that  make-up equipment should not be shared between actros.

“Make-up artists and stylists should also use masks and gloves when working.”

Another rules is adapting scenes to avoid close physical contact between actors.

The rules for film, drama and advertisement shoots follows hisannouncement on May 20 that the government will allow such activities to resume while under the conditional movement control order after the Hari Raya holidays. – June 3, 2020.