KUALA LUMPUR: Although individuals returning to Peninsular Malaysia from Sabah are not required to undergo quarantine, swab tests are compulsory.
Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said Sabah returnees are advised – not mandated – to observe self-quarantine at home, at least for the first few days, even if their swab tests are negative.
"Many are asking why not (impose) the 14-day quarantine (for Sabah returnees)? (Well), we allow inter-state travel. Sabah is (a Malaysian state) and when there was an increase in the number of cases in Kedah, we didn't screen everyone who travelled to Kedah.
"The reason we are doing swab tests for Sabah returnees is because of the increase in cases (there) and we want some certainty on the (Covid-19) status (of the returned person).
"If the result is negative, then you are free from quarantine. Besides, there are only four areas considered as red zones (in Sabah), not the (entire state)," he said in a Facebook post on Tuesday night.
Following the recent Sabah state election, the number of Covid-19 cases spiked – prompting the government to require those returning from the state to the Peninsula to undergo swab tests at their points of arrival.
Today, 101 new Covid-19 cases were reported – 73 of which are in Sabah.
In addition, several politicians who campaigned in the state election tested positive for the virus, including Umno information chief Sharil Sufian Hamdan.
"Home quarantine is (recommended) until the test result is out. God willing, if the result is negative, then you can visit a Klinik Kesihatan (government clinic) to cut your quarantine bracelet.
"However, if (you had) close contact with a Covid-19 patient, the 14-day quarantine is compulsory," he added. - NST
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