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So it's not really a lockdown, more like "controlled movement"

Mar 17, 2020

The Prime Minister assures there is no need to panic-buy or hoard essential items, as Malaysia deals with the spike in Covid-19 cases.

In an earlier speech yesterday, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says the government will ensure that there are enough supplies at all times:

"We will ensure that food will be available, so don't rush. Buy what's necessary. Stock what's necessary like you normally do. We will ensure that food will be available at all time."

This, as the Prime Minister announced that the entire country will go under a Movement Control Order for the first time ever, starting from midnight tonight until March 31st, to help address the spread of the coronavirus.

Among other things, it will see a ban on mass movement and assemblies nationwide - including all religious, sports, social and cultural activities.

All business premises must also be closed - except for supermarkets, public markets, grocery stores and shops selling basic necessities.

Government and private premises will also be shut - except those providing essential services like water, electricity and telecomunications, banks, pharmacies, fuel and food suppliers, as well as airports and security services.

All nurseries, government, private and religious schools, as well as public and private universities and vocational training centers will also be closed.

Also, Malaysians are barred from travelling overseas, while foreign visitors will not be allowed into the country.

Meanwhile, Singapore will continue to stay in close contact with Malaysian authorities regarding the Movement Control Order, and its effect on cross-border travel.

A government official there says Singaporean businesses that employ Malaysian workers who travel across the Causeway daily, have already been told that they MAY have to activate their Business Continuity Plans.