VISITING for the Hari Raya, Gawai and Kaamatan festivities will be allowed only on the first day and there should be no more than 20 close relatives, said  Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said today.

This was decided at a meeting of the National Security Council (MKN) yesterday which discussed procedures to be observed under the conditional movement control order (CMCO).

“We’re limiting the visiting to only the first day.

“It is also limited to immediate family members and cannot exceed 20 people on that day,” the defence minister told the daily briefing on Covid-19 security matters.

“Visiting only on the first day. Not to be continued on the second day, third day or up until day 30,” he said, refering to the month-long Hari Raya celebration.

Hosts should space out the number of visitors to ensure social distancing, taking into account the size of their house.

 “For example, if a flat is around 600 sq/ft, then having 20 people at a time is a lot because you won’t be able to maintain social distancing.

“In such a case, have guests come in groups of five, then after they leave, another five, but maximum of 20 visitors per day only,” he said.

Open houses remain prohibited under the CMCO, which bans mass gatherings of any kind, including for religious purposes.

On standard operating procedures (SOP) that hosts and guests should observe during festivities, Ismail Sabri said food should not be shared from the same plate to prevent any risk of Covid-19 spreading.

“Don’t share food from your plate. During Raya it is normal but try not to share food this time around. 

“Also, prepare hand sanitizer, or wash hands with soap. If possible, wear a mask and most importantly, maintain social distancing. 

On Sunday, when announcing the cconditional movement control order extension till June 9, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said Hari Raya visits within the same state are permitted at a maximum of 20 people in attendance. – May 13, 2020.