In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said the government decided on the total lockdown amid the worsening Covid-19 situation which saw a record 8,290 infections reported today.
Calls for a total lockdown from both sides of the political divide, and the public, have been growing, with even the Sultan of Johor joining the chorus.
Under the total lockdown, only the essential economic and services sectors are allowed to operate.
The National Security Council will provide a list of the essential sectors that can open during the lockdown.
The finance ministry will provide details of an aid package for the people and affected economic sectors soon.
The PMO said that if Covid-19 cases could be reduced in the first two weeks, the government will implement a second phase of the lockdown with the reopening of several economic sectors that do not involve mass gatherings and where physical distancing is possible.
“This second phase will be implemented for four weeks after the end of the first phase.”
After the second phase, the third phase will be an MCO similar to the one in effect now, where social activities are not allowed but nearly all economic sectors are allowed to operate subject to Covid-19 rules.
“However, the decision to move on from one phase to another is subject to a risk assessment by the health ministry. This assessment will be based on the number of daily cases and hospital capacities to treat Covid-19 patients.
“The government will ensure that the public health system does not collapse. Support and assistance will be given to the health ministry to boost hospital capacities nationwide.”
The PMO added that the government will also increase the number of vaccinations administered in the coming weeks to achieve herd immunity.
“The people are advised to remain disciplined in adhering to the SOPs to break the chain of infection. The best (way) is to stay at home and together, we will flatten the curve.”
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