WEARING masks outdoors will be optional from May 1, said Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, in the latest relaxation of coronavirus restrictions.

However, he added, masking is still highly recommended outdoors.

“Using face masks in open areas or outside buildings is optional but highly recommended as they can reduce the spread of infection,” he told a press conference in Putrajaya today.

He said masking remains compulsory indoors and on public transport, including e-hailing vehicles.

Khairy said individuals may remove their masks when eating, drinking, exercising, delivering a speech, performing, or if they are alone.

The minister reiterated that failure to comply with the masking mandate could result in penalties meted out under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).

Although the outdoor mask-wearing requirement would soon be relaxed, Khairy urged people in the high-risk group, especially the elderly and children, to continue donning masks.  – April 27, 2022.