The Ministry of Health has announced that all individuals that arrive from Sabah must undergo mandatory COVID-19 screening and self-quarantine starting tomorrow, 27th September until 10th October 2020. This is due to increasing number of new local infections across multiple states from individuals with a past travel history to Sabah.
According to the Ministry, there are 10 COVID-19 positive cases involving returnees from Sabah between 20th to 25th of September 2020. As reported today, there are 11 more cases reported in Peninsular Malaysia involving individuals that have recently returned from Sabah. At the moment, Sabah has 4 red zones – Tawau, Lahad Datu, Kunak and Semporna, with a combined 692 active cases.
Individuals that are travelling from Sabah to other states are required to download the MySejahtera app and to check-in upon arriving at their destination. They must also undergo COVID-19 screening at all international and domestic points.
After screening, all returnees will be given a Home Surveillance Order (HSO) and must wear a wristband. The HSO will begin upon arrival and they will be released once their COVID-19 test returns negative. Those who plan to go home via taxi or eHailing, will be given an authorisation letter to do so. If an individual is showing symptoms during the 14 days, they must undergo a second COVID-19 test.
The Ministry of Health is waiving the COVID-19 test charges for all individuals including Malaysians and foreigners that arrive from Sabah. The duration and measures for this new restriction will be monitored from time to time and the Ministry will make necessary announcements to the public depending on the situation.
Halfway through today’s Sabah’s state elections, BN Pitas candidate Sufian Abd Karim had announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19. Other politicians have also tested positive which include UMNO information chief Shahril Hamdan and UMNO supreme council member Datuk Mohd Razlan Muhammad Rafii.
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