CNY restrictions not to hamper freedom but to protect loved ones, says PM

PETALING JAYA: Some flexibility was given to allow families whose members live close to one another to have their traditional Chinese New Year reunion dinner despite Covid-19 travel restrictions, says Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

“The traditional reunion dinner practised by the Chinese community on the eve can still be celebrated with meaning among family members.

“Taking into account this important tradition, the government has given a bit of flexibility to allow the reunion dinner with family members living nearby to not more than 15 people on the eve of Chinese New Year, ” Muhyiddin said in his Chinese New Year message on Thursday (Feb 11).

He said this also includes allowing religious activities to be held at the temples based on the standard operating procedures (SOP).

He added that it is crucial that those celebrating the festivities continue to adopt self-discipline at all times such as wearing a face mask, keeping physical distance and washing their hands.

“If we are among family members who are in the high-risk group, protect them, ” he said.

Muhyiddin acknowledged that interstate and inter-district travel restrictions had resulted in many being unable to return to their homes or to meet their families.

“The restrictions are not to deny your freedom but for the good of all, and aimed at protecting lives, especially our families whom we love, ” he said.

He noted that the priority is to ensure that the chain of Covid-19 infections is broken.

Muhyiddin stressed that the SOP is meant to allow the celebration to be held safely.

He noted that in the current state of the pandemic, all Malaysians, irrespective of race or religion, are required to celebrate their respective festivals in a careful manner.

For families living far apart or students forced to stay on college or university campuses, Muhyiddin suggested that they rely on technology to stay connected.

“You can make video calls to ease missing your family members or good friends who are far apart, ” he said.

Muhyiddin hoped that the celebration this year would bring happiness and prosperity to all Malaysians.

“Make this celebration as a rich cultural and traditional source for Malaysians of differing races and religions and a unifying factor for mutual respect among each other, ” he added.

He said the celebration on Friday (Feb 12) is proof that there is respect among Malaysians of various races and religions.

“We need to maintain this strength as it is one of the main pillars of unity in our beloved country, ” he added.