Come Monday, jogging, badminton back on the cards

CORONAVIRUS | Come Monday, Malaysians can resume outdoor sports, exercises and other activities in line with the easing of the movement control order (MCO) announced by Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today.

This is, he said in a special address for Labour Day today, as long as such activities do not involve body contact, large gathering or people or inability to ensure social distancing.

Among the activities allowed include jogging, badminton, tennis, golf, even running in groups of no more than 10, with the condition that a distance of one metre is maintained between each individual.

However group, large spectator or body contact sports as well as indoor and stadium sports - including football and rugby, swimming in public pools - will not be permitted, due to risk of coronavirus infection.

“So you can play badminton or tennis outdoors, without spectators.

“Jogging, cycling, golf and running on small groups of 10 is allowed as long as you practice social distancing and avoid body contact,” he said earlier today.

This is part of conditional MCO being enforced from May 4, which will see the reopening of most businesses and offices, as well as the resumption of most social activities, subject to strict guidelines.

The country has been under a partial shutdown since March 18, in which all businesses, sports and social activities are not permitted, with the exception of essential services, the need to purchase essential goods or obtain medical services.

In his speech today, Muhyiddin said despite the easing of the MCO, in part to allow for the country’s economy to begin recovering after virtually being on standstill for over a month due to the MCO, Malaysians must accept the repercussions of the Covid-19 outbreak would be felt for months to go.

As such, Malaysians should prepare to adjust to the “new normal”, including continued hygiene practices, social distancing, wearing and wearing of face masks. - Mkini