Melaka polls: Khairy bans all public gatherings, warns action against flouters

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin barred all forms of social gatherings and public speeches in the upcoming Melaka state polls.

“This includes a ban on all forms of activities which will attract mass gatherings, including the launch of a political party’s election campaign machinery.

“The ban will take effect tomorrow and end on Nov 27. Any individual or bodies that flouts the rule risk getting fined or charged in court under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (PCID),” he said, in a statement.

Elaborating on the matter, Khairy said his ministry (MOH) made the decision as the risk of COVID-19 remains high, especially with the Delta variant already infiltrating the communities in Malaysia.

“With the increasing number of new СOVID-19 cases reported, such activities will further risk virus infection among the populace,” he stressed.

The Rembau MP stated that his decision was based on the provisions enacted under PCID, adding it was also in line Phase 4 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) which bars any activity that could attract crowd, flout physical distancing rules and other directives issued by the MOH director-general.

“I urge all parties to abide by the directive issued to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Everyone should be responsible when it comes to public health matters and security,” he remarked.

The Melaka state polls is scheduled for Nov 28. – Oct 24, 2021.

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