Ismail Sabri hopes to ‘balik kampung’ for Hari Raya

 

Ismail Sabri admits the number of cases due to clusters created by those returning to their hometowns increased after interstate travel was allowed. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: “Let’s pray that we can ‘balik kampung’ (return to hometown) for Aidilfitri this year,” senior minister for security Ismail Sabri Yaakob said last night, referring to the current downward trend of daily Covid-19 cases.

Appearing as a guest on the “Ruang Bicara” programme produced by Bernama TV here, Ismail said if the current downward trend continues, it is possible for interstate travel to be allowed.

“Subject to the risk assessment by the health ministry, people can return to their hometowns to celebrate Aidilfitri this year.

“Last year, on the advice of the health ministry, we did not return to celebrate Raya. I, too, have a hometown, and it is a must to return to my hometown. That has become a routine. So, when I could not do it, I was disappointed.

“However, with the declining cases and the R-naught (infection rate) dropping to 0.88 thus far, the health ministry will evaluate. Let’s pray that we can ‘balik kampung’ this Raya,” he said.

This year’s Aidilfitri is expected to fall on May 13.

Ismail stressed that the decision to open state borders should be considered carefully because when interstate travel was allowed previously, the number of cases due to clusters created by those returning to their hometowns increased.

Meanwhile, he said, there will be no more roadblocks at district borders as inter-district movement is now permitted but roadblocks at state borders will be maintained.

Commenting on recreational and public parks, which have not yet opened in some states although the government has allowed them to operate, he said that there should be no issue on the matter as the government had decided the parks could be opened.

“Parks for recreational purposes, including theme parks, have been allowed to resume operations because these parks are open places, they are less risky than indoor areas.

“The public can refer to the local authority on SOPs on parks reopening in their areas, or refer to the National Security Council (MKN),” he said. - FMT