Swab tests for artistes, movie and TV crew on voluntary basis, says Ismail Sabri

PUTRAJAYA: Compulsory swab tests need not be done on artistes and crew members involved in movie and television production activities, but it will be good if the company concerned takes the initiative to do so.

Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said swab tests will be done if there is a case or cluster that emerges from such activities.

"If production companies want to do it (swab tests) voluntarily, they can do so," he said on Wednesday (June 3).

The government had decided to allow movie and television productions, as well as filming of advertisements to resume shooting starting June 10.

Ismail Sabri said production companies must ensure that standard operating procedures, especially on the number of people at location during filming are followed.

"As for stylists and make-up artists, they must wear face shields and gloves when at work.

"Make-up tools cannot be shared. The make-up artist can only use, say, one brush for one person. The same brush cannot be used on others," he said.

Ismail Sabri said production companies must ensure there is a safety supervisor on site to ensure that everyone follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs).