In a press conference, Muhyiddin Yassin said the state-level bodies could ensure strategies and initiatives put in place are monitored at the district level.

“This is in line with a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. We cannot just think of (what happens at) the national level. We also have to look at states and districts.

“A bottom-up approach will give us a clearer picture of what steps need to be taken to ensure the country’s recovery.”

Muhyiddin, who was speaking after a national recovery council meeting, said the proposals would be put to prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and the Cabinet for their approval.

He added that the national recovery council was now looking into the revival of more economic sectors, especially those which are major contributors to the gross domestic product (GDP).

He said the council was emphasising sectors which have been the most affected by the pandemic – especially in terms of job loss – and alleviating poverty and homelessness.

Muhyiddin also said the national recovery council had raised the issue of re-opening international borders, adding that the matter would be fine-tuned by the relevant ministers this week.

Stating that most Malaysians had been fully vaccinated and thus would be allowed entry into other countries, Muhyiddin added that allowing foreign nationals back to the country would also provide a big boost to the country’s businesses and the tourism sector.

He also predicted inter-state travel would be allowed to resume once 90% of the country’s adult population is fully vaccinated, which he said would be by mid-October the latest.

“You’ll then be able to wander around the whole of Malaysia,” he said jokingly.

“But always remember to follow SOPs.”

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