Operating hours extended for certain businesses

KUALA LUMPUR: All businesses which are allowed to operate under the movement control order can operate until 10pm instead of 8pm, from today.

Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic) said the decision follows risk assessment by the Health Ministry.

“Prior to this, all sectors were allowed to operate until 8pm and after the evaluation by the Health Ministry, the government decided to extend operating hours for restaurants and food and beverage outlets to 10pm.

“We understand there is a lot of confusion which created some challenges for the enforcement of the timing.

“There were also a lot of requests made to extend the operating hours of their businesses, ” he said yesterday.

The 10pm closure will include sundry and convenience stores, pharmacies, laundromats, pet stores, optical shops, among others.

Ismail Sabri said forestry and timber industries as well other related sectors are also allowed to operate, starting today.

Meanwhile, he said the government is mulling to introduce higher compounds for those who flout the MCO.

He said the government is in the midst of drafting the Emergency Ordinance in order to increase compounds for individuals and businesses.

“When they are charged in court, their punishment will be much higher, ” he said.

Ismail Sabri also said the management of condominiums or apartments are allowed to request tenants to undergo Covid-19 tests and provide them with results before letting them enter their units.

He said such regulations were introduced by condominiums or apartments to ensure the safety of all residents.

“Yes. This is to protect the health of the residents. Condominium or apartment managements anywhere are allowed to make such a rule. So we will not stop them, ” he said.