MALAYSIA will only retain one Covid-19 standard operating procedure (SOP) from the existing 181 starting April 1 as the country transitions into the endemic phase, Senior Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said.

The Ministerial Quartet chief stated there were 10 requirements under the sole SOP wich would continue to be enforced under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342). 

“Among the 10 requirements, wearing a face mask and maintaining physical distancing are still required.”

 “This one SOP for the ‘transition to endemicity’ phase has been simplified from 181 SOPs that were enforced under the National Recovery Plan.

The 10 requirements under the one SOP are:

1. Masking in public.

2. Adhering to licensed operating hours.

3. Maintaining hand hygiene.

4. Covid-19 tests per National Testing Strategy.

5. Manage suspected or confirmed Covid-19 cases according to Health Ministry’s guidelines.

6. MySejahtera and MySJTrace for admission registration.

7. Physical distancing of one metre.

8. Good ventilation.

9. Keeping premises clean.

10. Compliance with vaccination requirements for various activities.

The defence minister added there will be nine guidelines on activities for the public to follow.

He said the guidelines will not be enforced but the public are advised to adhere to them to reduce the risk of infection.

The guidelines apply to transport and travel, education, retail, food and beverage, closed and open workspaces, events, ceremonies, entertainment and tourist attractions, hotels and guest accommodations, religious events, weddings, funerals, sports, recreation and leisure.

The SOP and nine guidelines will be published on a website that can be accessed two weeks before April 1. – March 9, 2022.