Health DG: Reopening because of economy, not because it's safe

Health DG: Reopening because of economy, not because it's safe

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has issued a reminder that the ongoing reopening of various places was done out of economic considerations and not because it is safe to do so.

“A reminder to all, many places are opening because of the economy and not because it is safe.

“Please keep that in mind...," Noor Hisham said on Facebook, several hours after caretaker prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced further relaxations for fully vaccinated individuals living in Phase 1 states of the National Recovery Plan.

“Please wear a mask, double masks if possible, practice physical distancing and frequent hand washing.

“Avoid crowded and confined spaces. Stay safe and get vaccinated as soon as possible," he said on Facebook.

Likewise, ProtectHealth Corporation CEO Anas Alam Faizli said the relaxations do not mean that fully vaccinated people to be complacent.

“Just because you can doesn't mean you have to go out. Do not be complacent just because you are vaccinated.

“Observe standard operating procedures strictly at all times. No bump fisting. No handshaking. Safety must always be your number one priority,” he said on Twitter.

ProtectHealth is a Health Ministry-owned entity that liaises the private sector’s involvement in the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

Among rules relaxed for Phase 1 states beginning tomorrow include permission to dine-in for fully vaccinated individuals.

More recreational activities are also allowed for fully vaccinated individuals, including fishing, hiking, camping, cycling, golf, and singles badminton or tennis matches.

This was as the nationwide rate for fully vaccinated adults in all states has exceeded 50 percent, ahead of an initial Aug 31 target.