COVID-19: New daily cases jump to 122 in Malaysia on the eve of CMCO

Malaysia has recorded a jump to 122 new COVID-19 cases today, which brings the total number of cases to 6,298. This is the highest number of cases per day since 14th April.

Unfortunately, there are 2 new deaths reported today and the current death toll is now 105. A total of 87 new recoveries were reported which brings the total number of recovered cases to 4,413. The current mortality rate is 1.67%, while the recovery rate is 70.07%.

At the moment, there are 1,780 cases still receiving treatment. 27 are currently in ICU while 13 require respiratory support.

Out of the 122 cases reported today, 52 are imported while 70 are transmitted locally. Out of the 70 cases, 24 are from EMCO areas.

The Ministry of Health has also reported a new COVID-19 cluster which is now identified as the “construction cluster” in Kuala Lumpur. 28 workers were tested positive and all of them are foreign workers. The source of the infection is still under investigation. It added that there’s a possibility that it could be linked to the Kampung Baru or Pasar Borong cluster but there’s no evidence yet.

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has reminded all Malaysians that CMCO which would allow selected businesses to reopen starting 4th May is not an indication that the MCO is lifted. He said that CMCO is meant to ease COVID-19 restrictions but with strict enforcement of social distancing. Those that do not comply with the directives will be subjected to punishment. He said those who are not convinced that the SOP will be followed, must remain at home.

The director-general explained that self-discipline will be crucial for the CMCO to succeed. He gave examples such as Sweden and South Korea in combating COVID-19 without imposing a lockdown. He stressed that the MCO is not over yet and the government is loosening some restrictions for selected businesses.

Although selected businesses are allowed to reopen starting tomorrow, some have decided to remain close. Fast-food chain outlets such as McDonald’s and MyBurgerLab have announced that they will continue to close their stores for dine-in customers. Existing delivery and takeaway services are still available. Meanwhile, several state governments including Sarawak have decided not to reopen businesses on Monday.

For those that are stuck at their hometowns may submit their request for interstate travel via the Gerak Malaysia app. The Royal Malaysia Police has provided a schedule and those that intend to travel back to the city with their families must follow the respective dates which are assigned according to location. More details here.

[ SOURCE 2, IMAGE SOURCE ]

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