MALAYSIA will extend the movement control order if it cannot break the chain of novel coronavirus (Covid-19) infection, said Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin. 

He pleaded with Malaysians to just stay at home during this two-week period. 

“If we don’t succeed at the end of this period, we may need to extend the order.

“As such, it is important that we all isolate ourselves and our families from being exposed to Covid-19,” said the prime minister in his second national telecast since Monday. 

On Monday, Muhyiddin announced Malaysia’s first movement control order effective from March 18 to 31 in the wake of a drastic jump in positive Covid-19 infections in Malaysia. 

He said Malaysians should stay where they are so that the chain of Covid-19 infections can be broken. 

“Just stay home! Those who are in Kuala Lumpur, stay in Kuala Lumpur. Those who are in Johor Baru, stay in Johor Baru. 

“If you have planned to go back to your hometowns, cancel those plans,” said the 72-year-old. 

Today, the Health Ministry announced 117 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of cases to 790.

The prime minister also said the order was not for Malaysians to go back to their hometowns or shop or attend weddings. 

“I say this because many were going back to their hometowns last night. I saw the highways jammed with cars heading all over the country. 

“The bus stations were also packed,” said Muhyiddin. 

He said the reason why the restriction order was for two weeks was because the Covid-19 incubation period is two weeks. 

“By the end of the two weeks, the government hopes that all those who have symptoms will successfully isolated and treated, freeing Malaysia from Covid-19.” 

He said that Covid-19 is transmitted from person to person via touching.

“Your chances of getting infected is higher if you go to crowded places,” Muhyiddin said.

He added that this was another reason why the government decided to close all schools, so as to minimise the chances of schoolchildren passing the virus around. 

Muhyiddin said Malaysians could still go out to get their basic necessities, as the markets would remain open. 

“But please practise good hygiene and social distancing. Wash your hands with soap or hand sanitisers. You should shower more often if you can.”

He said although eateries were open for deliveries and takeaways, Malaysians should not use this opportunity to hang out there. 

“Order the food and take back. Don’t use these two weeks to hang out at the mamak shops,” said Muhyiddin. 

He hoped families could also cancel wedding receptions to prevent mass gatherings of people. 

“You can have the solemnisation ceremony, but please postpone the wedding reception. You can have the reception after the outbreak is over.” – March 18, 2020.