KUALA LUMPUR: Police will increase standard operation procedure (SOP) compliance operations during the Chinese New Year season.

       Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Comm Datuk Hazani Ghazali (pic) said patrols and operations would be increased to ensure the public complies with the National Recovery Plan SOP to curb the spread of Covid-19.

       "The police advise the public to comply with SOPs especially with the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities, which will be celebrated by the Tiong Hua community.

       "Operations will be increased nationwide during this period," he said in a statement on Sunday (Jan 23).

       He added that stern action would be taken against anyone who violated the SOP under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.

       On Jan 19, the National Unity Ministry announced that family reunion dinners will be allowed on Chinese New Year’s eve on Jan 31.

       It was not mentioned if there is a cap on the number of people attending the dinner.

       Its Minister Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique also said that special prayers for the Hokkien clan, which falls on Feb 8 and 9, as well as prayers for Chap Goh Mei on Feb 15 are allowed.

       Special prayers on the first and second days of the Lunar New Year on Feb1 and 2 would be allowed, with standard operating procedures under Phase Four the National Recovery Plan in place.

       While open houses cannot be held, Chinese New Year receptions can be held but by invitation only.

       The reception cannot be held in multiple sessions and is not open to the public.