Happy fasting and abide by SOP at all times, says PM

PETALING JAYA: With the month of Ramadan starting on Sunday (April 3), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic) has conveyed his best wishes to those fasting and reminded Malaysians to abide by Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOP) at all times.

He said many Muslims would be returning to their hometowns to celebrate Ramadan, as there was a stop on interstate travel at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic last year.

"We have given some leeway but use of face masks is still compulsory in public spaces. Do not let your guard down," said Ismail Sabri in a statement on Saturday (April 2).

Interstate travel was banned when the movement control order (MCO) was implemented in March 2020 and briefly lifted in June that year.

But due to a surge in Covid-19 cases, the ban on interstate travel was reintroduced in January 2021 and lifted in October last year.

Ismail Sabri had said last month that interstate travel would be allowed regardless of a person's vaccination status.

He conveyed his well-wishes to those who will begin fasting on Sunday (April 3) and Malaysians can slowly return to normal life as the country transitions to the Covid-19 endemic phase.

"In this year's Ramadan, Muslims can fulfil their congregational fardhu and terawih prayers, as well as celebrate fasting programs, subject to the ruling of the state religious authority," said Ismail Sabri.

He also said the Ramadan month was an opportunity for Muslims to self-reflect and be charitable.

"At the same time, it is also important for Muslims to improve relations not just with the Creator, but also among mankind.

"Once again, I wish a Happy Ramadan and Happy Fasting to all Muslims," added Ismail Sabri.

Muslims in Malaysia fast from dawn to dusk throughout the month of Ramadan starting on Sunday.