HOMEMADE face masks must use the right materials to prevent absorption of droplets by the fabric, the Health Ministry said today following the government’s announcement to make the use of masks in public compulsory from August 1.

Director-general of health Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said non-medical grade masks must still be three-ply, made from materials recommended by the World Health Organisation.

These include an inner layer that can absorb moisture such as cotton or fabric with part cotton material; an outer layer made from hydrophobic material which repels water, such as polyester, polypropylene or a mix of both; and a middle layer of either polypropylene again, or a layer of cotton.

“This (middle layer) will increase the filtration or prevention of water droplets,” Noor Hisham said at the ministry’s press conference on Covid-19 today.

He also reminded people to wear their masks properly, with nostrils and chin covered.

“It won’t be effective if it is pulled down to the chin or covers only part of the nose and mouth, hence the risk of contamination and infection to the wearer.”

Earlier today, Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the mandatory use of face masks on public transport and in all crowded public areas, following a spike in cases.

Those who do not comply can be compounded RM1,000 under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.

Ismail Sabri also urged those with large families to make their own cloth face masks as masks had to be changed frequently.

From August 15, the government will also reduce the retail ceiling price for masks from RM1.50 to RM1.20 per piece. – July 23, 2020.