Just one Covid-19 SOP with 10 requirements to apply to all from April 1, says Hishammuddin

PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia transitions itself into the endemic phase, the government will reduce the Covid-19 standard operating procedure (SOP) from the existing 181 to just one starting April 1.

Senior Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, who heads the Ministerial Quartet, said the one SOP contains 10 requirements that will continue to be enforced under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342). Among the 10 requirements include the need to wear face masks, as well as practising physical distancing.

“In essence, this one SOP for the ‘Transition to Endemicity’ phase has been simplified from the 181 SOP that was enforced under the National Recovery Plan.

“Even though there is only one SOP, it will still be enforced under Act 342 from April 1.

“All of these 10 requirements have been practised by the public throughout the pandemic. I believe everyone can adhere to it,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (March 9).

The 10 requirements under the one SOP are:

1. Wear a face mask when in public

2. Operation hours must adhere to the permit or licence

3. Maintain hand hygiene

4. Perform Covid-19 tests according to the National Testing Strategy

5. Manage suspected or confirmed Covid-19 cases according to the Health Ministry’s guidelines

6. Use MySejahtera and MySJTrace for admission registration

7. Ensure physical distancing of one metre

8. Ensure a good ventilation system

9. Ensure the cleanliness of premises

10. Comply with the vaccination requirements for various activities

Hishammuddin said besides the one SOP, there will also be nine guidelines on activities for the public to follow which will not be enforced but the people are encouraged to adhere to them to reduce the risk of infection.

“Each of the guidelines will explain how to conduct Covid-19 risk assessments and how to practice SOP properly for the different activities,” he said.

The guidelines cover activities related to transportation and travel; education and care; retail, food and beverage; closed workspaces; open workspaces; events, ceremonies, entertainment and tourist attractions; hotels and guest accommodations; religious events, weddings and funerals; and sports, recreation and leisure.

He said the SOP and nine guidelines of the ‘Transition to Endemicity’ phase will be published on a website that can be accessed two weeks before April 1.