Negri MB: Ramadan bazaars not allowed in the state this year

SEREMBAN: The Negri Sembilan government has decided not to allow any Ramadan bazaars in the state this year, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

He said the decision was taken because the extended movement control order (MCO), which ends on April 14, was too close to the month of Ramadan when Muslims fast.

"We were left with no other option but to decide against this as our priority is the peoples' health and well-being.

"Even if the number of cases fall by then (April 14), we do not want to take the risk of allowing huge crowds to congregate," he told reporters after chairing the state exco meeting.

He said all local councils should take note of the decision.

Aminuddin said even the Chinese government had refused to allow its citizens in Wuhan – the city affected the worsst by the pandemic – to move freely even when no new cases were recorded over a few days.

"We will, however, allow those who wish to open food stalls to operate from their homes.

“We cannot allow the bazaars which will see huge crowds. That will certain be very risky," he said.

Aminuddin also expressed hope that the people would understand why state authorities had to make such a drastic decision.