MOVIE theatres are still not allowed to operate as the nation continues on its recovery phase in fighting the Covid-19 outbreak, said Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the government has yet to come up with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for cinema operations.

“Insyallah, when the right time comes, they’ll be allowed to operate, but as for now, not yet. There are no SOPs for it yet,” the defence minister said today when asked about cineplex openings.

All cinemas shut operations when the movement control order (MCO) was enforced on March 18 to curb the spread of Covid-19.

It has been almost three months since then, and they yet to get the green light from the government to begin operations.

However, the minister said car-wash outlets are allowed to operate, and urged them to follow all SOPs.

He said they have been allowed to operate since the International Trade and Industry Ministry gave vehicle workshops and spare-parts shops approval to open during the MCO.

“When we announced that workshops and others can operate, it applies to everything related to cars, be it a workshop, car painting centres, car accessories shop and car wash centres.

“Most car-wash outlets are at fuel stations and some have their own premises. All are allowed to operate but they have to follow SOPs.

“Detailed SOPs can be found on the National Security Council’s website,” he added. – June 17, 2020.