TWO villages in Labuan will be placed under enhanced movement-control order (EMCO) beginning October 21 for two weeks, said Senior Minister Ismail Sabri today. 

The two villages are Kg Saguking Laut and Kg Sebur Baru. 

“The EMCO will restrict movements in and out of the areas and also to make it easier for health authorities to conduct Covid-19 tests on residents,” he said during a press conference today. 

Ismail said as many as 8,062 residents will be affected by this control order. 

Residents in both villages will be placed under home surveillance orders (HSO) and be given monitoring bracelets to wear.

“Those who are symptomatic and those who have had samples taken are also to wear the monitoring bracelet,” he added. 

Ismail said movements in and out of the EMCO area are not permitted, not even for work. Exemption is only given to those facing emergencies. 

“All social and religious activities and all forms of gatherings are not allowed including barter trade activities,” he added.

However, certain economic activities such as grocery and convenience stores, and eateries, are allowed to operate for takeaway until 6pm only.

The country’s total number of Covid-19 cases doubled to more than 21,000 in the first 19 days of October, with 865 new cases reported yesterday – the third day infections breached the 800 mark. 

Sabah has so far accounted for one-third of all cases in the country, and also one-third of all deaths. The national death toll currently stands at 190. – October 20, 2020.