ALL inter-state travel is banned from today to March 31, with some exemptions, according to an official gazette published by the Attorney General’s Chambers.

The exemptions are for those who are on official government duty, those who are part of essential services or those who are seeking medical treatment.

Those “purchasing, supplying or delivering food or daily necessities” are also exempted from the ban, according to the gazette.

Inter-state travel may also be permitted “for any other special purposes permitted by the health director-general”.

These regulations are called the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within Infected Local Areas) Regulations 2020, and the gazette was signed by Health Minister Dr Adham Baba.

The gazette is published today as Malaysia enforces a movement-control order, shuttering most private and public sector premises to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The gazette also reiterated the ban of all gatherings – sports, recreational, religious or cultural.

Attendees at funeral services should also be kept to a minimum.

“Any premises providing essential services may be opened provided that the number of personnel and patrons shall be kept to a minimum.

“Any premises involved in the food supply chain or in selling food and beverages by way of drive through, take away and delivery may be open subject to conditions set by the director-general.”

The list of essential services has been expanded to include hotels, ports and docks, and e-commerce firms.

Those found guilty violating these regulations are liable to a fine not exceeding RM1,000, a maximum jail term of six months or both. – March 18, 2020.

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