KUALA LUMPUR: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all activities during the month of Ramadan will be the same as those in place for the ongoing Movement Control Order (MCO) nationwide, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said today.
However, he said a slight tweak has been made to allow Muslims to make necessary preparations for iftar, or the breaking of fast.
"(Our) meeting today concluded that operational hours for public transportation will now be from 4pm to 10pm, compared to 5pm to 10pm previously.
"The operational hours for wet markets will also be extended from 6am to 2pm, compared 6am to noon previously," he told a press conference aired live on television today.
Asked if operational hours for restaurants will also be extended, Ismail said 'no'.
"For now, we are maintaining the same SOP because we want to reduce movement in this country.
"When there is plenty of movement, there is a chance some will disobey the rules, such as making all kinds of excuses just to go out," he said.
On food supply at enhanced MCO areas, Ismail said that the government received complaints on food distribution at Pusat Bandar Utara, here.
Following that, he said that Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Social Welfare Department (JKM) have been instructed to ensure issues surrounding food distribution in the area are resolved soon.
He also said operation centres at EMCO areas have been set up, and affected residents can seek help from the authorities stationed there.
"For residents who are having problems such as buying essentials like formula milk for babies, diapers and others, they can contact the operation centres at their respective areas.
"However, the cost (to buy the items) must be paid by them (the residents)," he said.
Meanwhile, on daily updates on MCO compliance, Ismail said there has been a decrease in the number of people defying the MCO.
Yesterday, 763 people were arrested for violating MCO rules and of this, 648 have been remanded and 115 released on police bail, he said.
The total number of people arrested so far is 18,498, with 860 charged in court yesterday.
The Bera Member of Parliament also said that as of yesterday, 535 Malaysians returned home from abroad and are currently undergoing compulsory quarantine.
"In total, 16,416 Malaysians who returned from overseas have been under quarantine since Apr 3; and since Apr 17, 4,908 people have been allowed to go home," he added.