Barbershop: Wait for more details from Miti, says minister

CORONAVIRUS | The International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) will issue details on the criteria for hair salons to operate during the third phase of the movement control order (MCO), says Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The senior minister in charge of security cluster told a press conference in Putrajaya this afternoon that what Miti had announced earlier was not final, and it does not mean they are going to be automatically implemented.

"The decision would be made by Miti. Let Miti issue their press release to explain," Ismail (photo) said.

According to him, the plan to allow certain industries to operate during the MCO was only meant only for areas that are considered as "green zones" by the health authorities.

"The details and standard operating procedures would be issued by Miti," he said.

On Friday, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the MCO would be extended for another two weeks, starting on Wednesday to April 28. It was first implemented from March 18 to 31, but extended until April 14.

During this announcement, Muhyiddin also said several economic sectors would be allowed to open gradually during the third phase.

Following this, Miti released a list of industries and businesses that can apply to operate. Among those listed include hardware shops, full laundry services and haircutting services.

However, the list quickly became a subject of criticism, especially its inclusion of hair salons which raised concerns of its risk in spreading Covid-19.

The list also came to the attention of the Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, who agreed that the government should postpone its decision to allow hair salons and barbershops to operate.

Following the objections, Ismail had said in a press conference yesterday that Miti would consider public views on the matter.

According to Ismail today, Miti would look into the matter closely. He added that what had been announced was preliminary and not automatic for implementation.

"It was at a preliminary stage, not automatic. The decision is in the hands of Miti, so let them issue a statement to make it clear," he said. - Mkini