THE Malacca government is encouraging the wearing of masks in public areas, including schools, especially for those with Covid-19 symptoms in line with the recommendations of the Health Ministry (MOH).

State Health, Human Resources and Unity Committee chairman Ngwe Hee Sem said the measure was an effort to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the state even though daily cases were reported to be declining.

“Malacca will follow the recommendations, guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOP) set or issued by the MOH and currently the wearing of masks in public areas is just a recommendation, and not compulsory.

“But if the wearing of masks becomes mandatory in the future, we will follow the SOP.” he told reporters at the Malacca government Hari Raya Open House at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Malacca today.

The MOH had previously recommended the wearing of masks to be reintroduced in all schools following concerns over the rise of Covid-19 cases, along with the spread of a new variant, XBB.1.16 or Arcturus.

Currently, the ministry still encourages the wearing of masks in public places or for people with Covid-19 symptoms. – Bernama, April 29, 2023.