KUCHING: Although Health Minister, Dr Zaliha Mustafa has announced that face masks will no longer be mandatory on public transportation and at healthcare facilities effective July 5, those who are ill with flu must still wear masks when taking care of children.
“This is to prevent the flu from spreading to children under their care,” said Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
She added these measures should be practised in preschools and kindergartens to reduce the risk of transmission among children.
Fatimah, on the other hand, welcomed the updated COVID-19 guidelines announced by the Ministry of Health (MOH).
“The announcement indicates good progress of good and effective management to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” she said.
Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil commented the decision to update the COVID-19 guidelines would have been taken into consideration the advices from health experts.
Penguang, however, told New Sarawak Tribune he would continue to wear a face mask in crowded places or when using public transport.
Sri Aman MP, Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodie, said, “We don’t need to be told when and where not to wear masks. It’s subjective. If you feel that you are at risk, then wear the mask by all means.”
Meanwhile, Puncak Borneo MP, Datuk Willie Mongin advised those who had flu, fever or cough to wear face masks in public even though the masks will no longer be mandatory on public transportation and at healthcare facilities effective July 5.
