The leeway for visiting given by the government for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri will only be on the first day of celebrations.

Senior minister (security cluster) Ismail Sabri Yaakob, in his daily COVID-19 related press conference today, said the same will apply for the Gawai and Kaamatan festivals, celebrated by Sabahans and Sarawakians, respectively.

"The Movement Control Order (MCO) is to ensure the public stay at home and avoid crowds to prevent them from getting infected with COVID-19.

"Although we have relaxed the rules, we are hoping that the public will take it upon themselves to prevent themselves, and their family members from getting infected," The Star quoted the minister saying.

The government had previously disallowed "balik kampung" and interstate travel for the festivities.

The National Security Council, however, under the relaxed Conditional MCO (CMCO), has allowed up to 20 people, including neighbours or relatives, within the same state, to gather for the festivities.

Citing a 600sq feet flat, where a gathering of 20 people would make social distancing difficult, Ismail also stressed that visits will only be allowed on the first day.

"I know that we celebrate Aidilfitri for a month, but this year, there can be no visits on the second day, and so on.

"Please be reminded that open houses are prohibited."

Hari Raya Aidifitri is expected to fall on May 24, followed by Kaamatan on May 30, and Gawai on June 1.

Yesterday, Ismail warned that the government could reintroduce the original MCO if Malaysians continue to stubbornly ignore the relaxed conditions currently in place, and flout the law.


Source: The Star
Photo source: Astro Awani