By Mustakim Ramli
SHAH ALAM, May 11 — The awareness level of Covid-19 risk in Selangor remains high despite the relaxation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) announced by the Federal government that started on May 1.
Selangor Public Health Advisory Council committee member Dr Mohammad Farhan Rusli said this can be seen as people still opt to wear the face mask in public spaces.
“For instance, I went out to buy my lunch at a food truck and all of the customers who lined up were wearing the face mask even though it is no longer mandatory. I am happy to see such development.
“In fact, most of the kids also wore the face mask, showing that the awareness is still there, and it is something positive for Selangor,” he said.
Mohammad Farhan who is also the International Islamic University Malaysia public health specialist said so during the Bual Bicara talk show titled ‘Loosen SOP, more self-care’’ broadcast live on SelangorTV Youtube and Media Selangor Facebook last night.
When asked about the Covid-19 infection rate in the state, Mohammad Farhan said Selangor will always record high numbers due to its large population.
“So, when something big happens in the country, Selangor would always be the biggest and the highest…based on what we know, the situation in the state is under control as most of the population have been vaccinated.
“The total number does not portray the actual situation whereby there are other states that record a higher percentage of infection compared to Selangor,” he said.
On April 27, the Health Ministry announced that the use of face masks is no longer mandatory outdoors beginning May 1.
Its minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the use of face masks outside a building and in open spaces is optional but highly recommended as it helps to curb the spread of Covid-19 infection.
