PM unveils Covid-19 exit plan, social sectors expected to reopen in Sept

 

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today unveiled a four-phased exit plan for the nation with regard to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each phase is expected to take about two months with social sectors - including schools - to reopen gradually during Phase Three which is estimated to start in September.

Currently, Malaysia is in Phase One and transitioning from one phase to the next will depend on whether the three criteria are met.

These are the number of daily Covid-19 cases, nationwide ICU capacity and the number of people who have been vaccinated (with two doses).

To transition from Phase One to Phase Two, the country will have to record an average of below 4,000 Covid-19 cases daily, ICU capacity easing to moderate levels and 10 percent of the population being fully vaccinated.

Phase Two will see the slight easing of restrictions on business activity. Businesses that are allowed to operate can do so with 80 percent of their workforce. Interstate travel, however, will remain banned.

To enter Phase Three, the country will have to achieve an average of below 2,000 cases daily, "sufficient" ICU capacity and 40 percent of the population fully vaccinated.

Phase Three will see most business activities being allowed to operate except for those where physical distancing cannot be maintained such as conventions, pubs, spas and beauty salons.

Phase Four will kick in once the country has an average of less than 500 daily cases, "sufficient" ICU capacity and 60 percent of the population vaccinated.

Muhyiddin, in a televised address to unveil the plan, said all economic sectors will be reopened under Phase 4 while more social activities including interstate travel will also be allowed. 

Timeline not fixed

Putrajaya, in a briefing to media editors this afternoon, indicated the timeline for transitioning from one phase to another is not fixed.

If all three indicators are met ahead of time, then the country will move to the next phase earlier. Conversely, if all three indicators are not met on time, then the transition will be delayed as well.

For example, if all Phase Three indicators are met in mid-July, the country can move out of Phase Two much earlier - subject to a risk assessment by the Health Ministry.

Muhyiddin, in his speech, said herd immunity is expected to be achieved by year-end.

In the media briefing, he said herd immunity will mean that both the local and migrant populations are vaccinated.

Malaysiakini understands that the country will be receiving a larger supply of vaccines beginning next month. 

Muhyiddin in his speech urged Malaysians to abide by Covid-19 health protocols to avoid the spread of the virus while making efforts to ensure that the vaccination programme is a success.

He said he is "cautiously optimistic" Malaysia will emerge victorious and stronger from the crisis.

"We must remain steadfast and resolute in our commitment to fight and win this war against Covid-19. We must never waver and defeat is simply not an option.

"Ultimately, the greatest lesson Covid-19 can teach humanity is that we are all in this together. We are a strong nation.

"The people have proven their mettle in past crises. We have a collective responsibility to each other and to our family and friends," he said.

 - Mkini