The Order is effective at all times throughout the announced period nationwide

by NUR HANANI AZMAN/ pic by RAZAK GHAZALI

CAN I do that? Can I go there? Following the government’s announcement of Movement Control Order which takes effect today in order to curb the spread of Covid-19, Malaysians have been asking all manner of questions on what is and isn’t allowed under the Order.

Fret not, the Malaysian National Security Council has released a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) and their answers to facilitate better understanding of the Order.

1. Name of order: Movement Control Order.

2. Time frame: March 18 to 31, 2020.

3. Order coverage area: The Order applies throughout Malaysia.

4. Law enforcement: The Order is based on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 and the Police Act 1967.

5. Instructions under the Movement Control Order. There are six instructions stated in the Order:
• A comprehensive prohibition of mass movements and gatherings including religious, sports, social and cultural activities;
• Comprehensive restrictions on all Malaysians travelling abroad;
• Restrictions on entry of all foreign tourists and visitors into the country;
• Closing of all kindergarten, government and private schools, and other primary, secondary and pre-university institutions;
• Closing of all public and private institutions of higher learning and skills training institutes nationwide; and
• Closing of all government and private premises except those involved in essential services.

6. Can events such as weddings, kenduri and the like be held?
Solemnisation or “pernikahan” and reception ceremonies are not allowed.

7. Does the Movement Control Order have a set time period throughout March 18 to 31, 2020?
No. This Order is effective at all times without a specific time period.

8. If necessary items run out, is it possible to go out to buy things and go back immediately?
Yes.

9. I am a Malaysian citizen and my husband is a UK citizen. Are we allowed to return to Malaysia during this restriction period?
Yes, on the condition that your partner can prove the validity of the marriage, whether it is registered with the Malaysian government or the government of their country of origin. Couples must undergo health screening and voluntary self-quarantine to reduce the possibility of infection or transmitting the infection to others.

10. My child is a student at an overseas institution. Will my child be allowed to return to Malaysia?
This is allowed. Any Malaysian citizens abroad are allowed to return during this restriction period. However, that individual must undergo health screening and voluntary self-quarantine to reduce the possibility of infection and spreading of the infection to others.

11. I am a long-term pass holder in Malaysia and I returned to my home country before the Order was issued. Am I allowed to return to Malaysia for work during this restricted period?
Only foreign migrants working in the essential services sectors are allowed to return to Malaysia during the restriction period. The foreign migrants must obtain a confirmation letter from their employers to be presented to the Immigration Department at the entry point.

12. I work in Singapore. Am I allowed to commute to my office in Singapore?
No. The Movement Control Order applies to all individuals in this country. All individuals who work in neighbouring countries but live in Malaysia are not allowed to travel daily and should inform their employers of this.

13. I have made plans to go on holiday in Malaysia and have made the necessary payments. Can I continue with my holiday?
Under the Movement Control Order, the public are prohibited from going anywhere including holiday centres for social activities and if the visit is not related to important national services. You are advised not to proceed with your holiday.

14. Can I drive to the airport to fetch someone who has returned from abroad or a relative working in a sector which provides essential services?
Going to a place for a short while is allowed under the Movement Control Order.

15. Are schools required to replace classes?
No.

16. Do classes and all activities involving public and private higher education institutions and training centres fall under the Order?
Yes.

17. What about students staying in facilities provided by their public and private higher education institutions, especially foreign students?
All students in private and public higher education institutions in the country should go back to their respective homes during the Movement Control Order period. Foreign students are advised to return to their home countries during this time. Students who have left are not allowed to return during the Order period. Foreign students who decide to stay in Malaysia must report to the management of their institutions and adhere to the Order.

18. Can food stores such as fast-food outlets, restaurants or hawker centres continue to operate?
Food stores can continue operation but only to provide food for takeaways or delivery services provided by specific companies such as GrabFood or foodpanda.

19. Can public transport such as buses, LRT, MRT, KTM operate?
All public transport services will continue during this period.

20. I paid for my hotel stay before the Order was imposed. Can I ask for a refund?
The public are encouraged to discuss the matter directly with the hotel management with regard to obtaining a refund for a booking made prior to the Order being announced.

21. In the event of a death at home (not a Covid-19 patient), are funeral prayers and tahlil allowed?
Funeral prayers are allowed to be carried out only by the nearest heir with mosque’s kariah. Tahlil is not allowed.