KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, expressed support today for the government’s decision to extend the Movement Control Order (MCO) into a third phase, from April 15 to 28.
His Majesty thus called on the people to comply with the MCO and the latest instructions issued by government agencies with the specific aim of breaking the chain of Covid-19 infections in the country.
According to Istana Negara’s Comptroller of the Royal Household, Datuk Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin, the Agong said that the extension will enable the Health Ministry to focus on targeted groups which have been identified as the sources of transmissions.
“What is more important is for the pandemic to come to an end, so that the people can resume their normal lives, in good health and in peace,” he said in a statement issued today.
Ahmad Fadil said the King also expressed the hope that Malaysians will continue to be patient and persevere in facing the challenges which are part of “the new normal.”
“The people are also advised to always be careful, to practise good personal hygiene and social distancing, and to avoid attending any gathering or crowded areas,” he added.
Ahmad Fadil said in view of the extension of the MCO and on the advice of the Health Ministry, Istana Negara will not be organising or taking part in any religious ceremony such as ‘tahlil’ throughout the month of Ramadan.
He said the decision takes into account the factor of security and the need to avoid putting all parties at risk, particularly the people.
He said the Agong also advised Muslims in the country to observe the month of Ramadan by focusing on works of charity, and by praying and trusting in Allah SWT, in order to withstand this test; while continuously taking care of their safety and health. – Bernama