ALL mosque activities in Selangor, including Friday prayers, are suspended until April 17, declared the state’s official newsletter today.

Selangorkini, which is published and fully funded by the state government, said Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah issued the directive to stem the spread of Covid-19.

“Friday prayers should be replaced with Zohor prayers at home,” said the newsletter.

A statement by the Selangor palace said: “A new order will be issued if we succeed in breaking the outbreak.”

The Selangor ruler said the “azan”, or call to prayer, should continue, and advised people not to congregate in public places.

Prior to this, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Islamic affairs Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri ordered the suspension of all activities at mosques, including Friday prayers, for 10 days till March 27.

Malaysia is under a movement-control order effective yesterday till March 31 following a dramatic increase in cases.

Yesterday, the Health Ministry announced 117 new coronavirus infections, bringing the national tally to 790. Two patients have died. – March 19, 2020.