MALAYSIANS are grateful for shopping malls reopening under the conditional movement-control order, restoring a degree of normalcy to their lives.

The government has allowed almost all businesses to resume operations today, including shops in malls, as well as dine-in services at restaurants, on condition that health and hygiene measures are in place.

A survey by The Malaysian Insight found that not all retailers are open for business, but this has not dampened some people’s spirit.

At the normally bustling KL Sentral, almost all stores are still closed. The situation is not much different at KLCC, where the majority of outlets are open only for disinfection and preparations to resume business.

Only a few shoppers were seen at both places.

Tan B.L. said she is happy to see more cars on the road and people walking around outdoors.

“I feel happy because life is back to normal. It was very depressing to see places empty.

“It was also very inconvenient under the MCO.”

The 58-year-old, who has been working shifts since the government order took effect on March 18, believes that as long as people maintain good hygiene, wear masks and avoid crowds, there should be no problem.

Temperature-screening stations and clearly marked lines for queues were seen at the entrances to KL Sentral and KLCC.

Banker Fadzli Yassin is relieved that malls have reopened, making it easier for him to buy goods.

“I feel relieved because now, I can buy and do more things than at a supermarket.

“I went to KLCC’s supermarket today, and also fixed my glasses. Before this, the shops were closed.”

The 35-year-old admitted to feeling some anxiety about businesses reopening.

“Yes, I am anxious, but I noticed that shops are practising social distancing, so I think it’s okay. Also, as long as people wear masks.”

Other measures taken by stores include providing hand sanitiser at the entrance.

A 33-year-old doctor who wanted to be known only as Maria said it was her first time out of the house in almost two months.

“I do feel anxious because I was indoors for two months, and I didn’t feel good during that time because I could only leave the house to buy things.

“It was like my body collapsed because I couldn’t do much.

“Now that I’m outside, I feel good. I can walk and stretch.”

“I’m not really worried about being here right now at this hour because I see that there are safety measures in place,” said another shopper, Diyana.

However, the 27-year-old writer said she would be a little anxious if she had arrived at the mall later as it would be crowded.

The shoppers seen at KLCC and KL Sentral today wore masks and observed social distancing.

Office areas around the two places are still largely empty. – May 4, 2020.