PETALING JAYA: Jogging and cycling is now permitted in certain areas under the third movement control order (MCO 3.0), but only as long as a 1.5m distance is maintained between those exercising.
The latest regulations, which mark a reversal of initial SOPs which banned such activities, was announced by the youth and sports ministry in a statement earlier today.
“The National Security Council (MKN) today considered the ministry’s appeal to review the decision on SOPs for the sports and recreation sector during the May 7-20 MCO period,” it said.
“Sports and recreational activities performed in open areas without physical contact such as jogging, cycling and other exercises can now be carried out with a minimum physical distancing of 1.5m in local neighbourhoods.”
It said the rule would come into force tomorrow, with MKN to consider loosening restrictions in other sports and recreation activities in the future.
The move to temporarily ban all sports and recreational activities in areas under MCO was condemned by health associations such as the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Association Malaysia (FPMPAM) and health experts such as Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, who was recently inducted into the World Health Organization’s Science Council.
FPMPAM president Dr Steven Chow asked the government for evidence that exercising in compliance with Covid-19 SOPs in an open area was responsible for the spread of Covid-19, stating it is irrational to “blindly pursue” a “duduk di rumah” (sit at home) approach.
“This is detrimental to the physical and mental health of the people. Outdoor family-centred activities should be encouraged,” he told FMT. - FMT
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