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No more evening COVID-19 reports

Feb 17, 2022

Starting tomorrow, daily COVID-19 infections in the country will no longer be reported in the evenings.

The Health Minister says instead, it will be reported the next day at 10am, alongside relevant data.

Khairy Jamaluddin says it is to enable Malaysians to understand not only the number of new cases, but also the hospitalisation and death rates.  

On another note, Khairy assures that the Health Ministry has already taken all the necessary precautions to face the Omicron wave.

He adds that despite the recent surge in cases, ICU admissions and death rates have only slightly risen thanks to vaccinations.

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Langkawi International Travel Bubble extended

The International Travel Bubble in Langkawi has been extended until Malaysia reopens its borders.

The SOPs for foreigners entering the country via the bubble, will be used as a benchmark for the full border re-opening.

Among others, tourists who have received the booster shot, will be allowed to leave the island after five days, if they test negative for COVID-19.

The Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry adds that starting next Tuesday, incoming flights to the island through KLIA 2 will be allowed.

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KKM to table new Act on generational ban on smoking

The Health Minister hopes its proposed new law will lower future generation’s exposure to cigarettes and tobacco products.

This, as tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer and contributes to over 20% of cancer-related deaths.

Khairy Jamaluddin adds that the cost to treat lung cancer due to smoking is estimated at over RM130 million.

As such, the ministry will table a new Act in Parliament to ban those born after 2005, from smoking and possessing tobacco products including vape.