Those working in Singapore, Thailand will have to stay home during movement control order, says Immigration DG

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians working in neighbouring countries of Singapore and Thailand will not be allowed to commute to work beginning Wednesday (March 18).

Immigration director-general Datuk Khairul Dzaimee Daud said the movement ban is until March 31.

He said this is as per the announcement made by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin implementing the movement control order to curb the spread of Covid-19.

"The Prime Minister has announced it last night. The Immigration Department will implement the decision.

"Starting tomorrow (Wednesday) all Malaysians working in Singapore and Thailand will be prohibited from commuting," he said when contacted on Tuesday (March 17).

On Monday (March 16), the Prime Minister announced a movement control order to be imposed from Wednesday until the end of the month to contain the Covid-19 outbreak.

The measure will also restrict the movement and congregation at religious, sport, social and cultural events.

While public and business premises will be closed, Muhyiddin announced that supermarkets, sundry shops and other shops selling daily essentials will remain open.

Overseas travel for Malaysians will be restricted while those returning to the country must undergo health checks and mandatory quarantine.

Educational centres and schools, including higher learning institutions, will also be closed during this period.

The Prime Minister assured the public that essential services will continue.

These include health services, utilities such as fuel and electricity, along with the Fire and Rescue Department, police and those involved in the food supply chain.