THE Health Ministry has ordered the shutdown of all recreational activities on Broga Hill due to violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs) meant to curb the spread of Covid-19.

In a statement today, Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the order was issued under Section 18 of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.

The shutdown, which takes effect Saturday, will be indefinite until further notice.

Berita Harian reported earlier today that the shutdown was to last two weeks.

Pictures of hikers crowding along a trail in the park went viral over the weekend, prompting government action.

Noor Hisham said SOPs were designed to be the nation’s “defensive system” against the spread of Covid-19.

He also said that the premises of an unnamed shop and another unnamed company were widely reported on social media to be flouting SOPs.

“Therefore, the Health Ministry urges the public not to let their guard down and disregard the SOPs and new norms. The ministry hopes that all levels of the community will continue their efforts to break the chain of infections.”

Malaysia today recorded single-digit new cases for the third straight day, with four cases to bring the total tally to 8,600 cases.

There are currently 208 active cases or patients who are isolated and receiving treatment.

The death toll remains at 121. – June 25, 2020.