We must adapt to the new normal, says PM

PUTRAJAYA: As the Federal Government extends the movement control order (MCO) until April 28, the Prime Minister has called on the people to adapt to “the new normal” as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said what was usually done before could no longer be done, citing examples such as shaking hands.

“Before, it would have been awkward or rude to not practise this (shaking hands) but now, it can’t be done.

He said with Ramadan approaching, one could no longer frequent the annual bazaars or go to mosques to perform terawih prayers.

“Perhaps, we cannot balik kampung like we always do. Although it is difficult for us to imagine, this is the reality we are facing, ” he said in a televised address to announce the extension of the MCO yesterday.

In order to flatten the spread of Covid-19, the government has put in place the MCO, which will enter its third phase.

The first MCO was from March 18-31 while the second, which started on April 1 was to end on April 14. The extension will be enforced from April 15-28.

Asking the people to be prepared to face restrictions for a longer period of time, the Prime Minister said this might go on for a few months before it could be truly ascertained that the spread of the virus had been totally overcome.

“Even then, we may not be able to go back to way things were. For as long as the virus exists, we must do the new normal such as social distancing, avoid mass gatherings and crowded places, and look after one’s personal hygiene, ” he said.

Muhyiddin said as Prime Minister, it was his responsibility to look after the safety and lives of all, adding that each life, be it babies, young people, adults or senior citizens, is precious.

“The loss of a life because of the virus is not just a loss to a wife, husband, child and family, but is also a loss to the nation, ” he said.

He reminded Malaysians that the war on Covid-19 was not over yet: “The fight is still on. We are doing well so far, so just uplift your spirits and continue to fight. If we persevere, InsyaAllah we will win.”