Starting 1st August 2020, the government has made it compulsory for everyone to wear face masks in crowded public places and also when using public transport. If you fail to comply, you could be fined RM1,000.
However, there has been a lot of confusion on which occasion would require the public to wear face masks. As a result, many were fined for not putting their masks on including while driving in their private cars.
To avoid further uncertainty, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said in a live conference yesterday (Monday, 3rd August) that he had met the PDRM authorities and have decided to cancel the fines. That’s not all! Those who paid fines for not wearing masks in their private vehicles are allowed to claim a refund.
He then elaborated on which specific locations requires the usage of face masks. According to the minister, face masks are mandatory when you are in a crowded area like buses, taxis, LRT, MRT, KTM, as well as e-hailing rides. Other public places namely markets, cinemas and tourist spots are also included in the list.
Whereas the locations where you don’t have to wear face masks are inside your house and also in your own vehicle. “The same case goes for those who are on the beach. If only one person is at the place and is not crowded, there’s no need to wear a mask,” said Ismail Sabri. He added, “Another example is the football field, its a spacious area, so people can still practise social distancing.”
During the conference, Ismail Sabri also announced that children aged two years and below are not required to wear face masks as it may affect their breathing. However, parents should be responsible and avoid bringing young children out to crowded places.
Source: MMO.
