'Neglecting to wear face masks is dangerous' - Noor Azmi
CORONAVIRUS | Deputy Health Minister Dr Noor Azmi Ghazali has expressed concern over the "negligent" attitude of some citizens, especially after the number of new Covid-19 cases fell to single digits.
The Bagan Serai MP warned that Malaysia could see an increase in cases, as what has happened in foreign countries experiencing a second wave of Covid-19, if the government's recommendations are not heeded.
CORONAVIRUS | Deputy Health Minister Dr Noor Azmi Ghazali has expressed concern over the "negligent" attitude of some citizens, especially after the number of new Covid-19 cases fell to single digits.
The Bagan Serai MP warned that Malaysia could see an increase in cases, as what has happened in foreign countries experiencing a second wave of Covid-19, if the government's recommendations are not heeded.
This is why the Health Ministry is always reminding the people to observe standard operating procedures (SOP), Noor Azmi (above) said.
"If people neglect wearing face masks and ignore social distancing that is a dangerous trend as contagion can happen," he told Malaysiakini during a visit to the portal's office in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
There have been some SOP violations in cases such as group exercises, he said, stressing that the wearing of face masks in crowded areas is very important.
"If we go to a place where there are many people - supermarkets, night markets, mosques - we have to wear masks.
"We must take care of ourselves. If we take precautions, we will be safe, our country will be safe," he added.
Asked about the assessment of the use of face masks and social distancing among the public, Noor Azmi described the situation as moderate.
"In my opinion, the usage is moderate. There are some places I have been to where I noticed people not observing social distancing. So I'm worried.
"To reprimand is not wrong. Reprimanding is a sign of love, "he said.
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday said the government was considering mandating the enforcement of the use of face masks in public places.
In a special message related to Covid-19, Muhyiddin said the details would be announced when the government finalises the relevant rules.
Are you sure you want to delete this comment?
This action cannot be undone.