KUALA LUMPUR: Travellers are no longer required to put on face masks when they are on airplanes, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said.
He said the ruling has been lifted with immediate effect.
Khairy said his ministry, however, encouraged those who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms such as fever, cough and flu to continue wearing a mask when they are on board the airplane.
"Also encouraged to wear a mask are high-risk individuals including senior citizens, individuals with chronic illness, individuals with low immunity and pregnant women.
"Travel companions of high-risk groups like the elderly and children are also encouraged to wear a mask," he said in a statement today.
He explained that the decision was made after a risk assessment. Airplanes now also have improved ventilation systems.
"Good ventilation in flights; the use of the high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters to remove airborne pollutants; seat arrangement and frequent disinfection of the plane cabins are among the reasons.
"This relaxation is also in line with the health recommendations by the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore," said Khairy.
However, he stressed that the requirement to put on a mask in flight is still subject to the rules set by the respective destination countries.
On Sept 7, Khairy announced that wearing of face masks in enclosed spaces was now optional, though it was still mandatory in public transportation and medical facilities.