PETALING JAYA: The loosening of Covid-19 SOPs for fully vaccinated people was done according to scientific facts and data, says Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz (pic).

       In a Facebook post on Monday (Aug 9), Tengku Zafrul said that the decision was only made following consultation with various experts.

       "As announced by the Prime Minister, the National Security Council (NSC) agreed to loosen several SOPs for those that have been fully vaccinated.

       "This was made based on the advice of experts and scientific facts and data that have been obtained at the domestic and international level," he said.

       Tengku Zafrul added that the government intended to open up the country using the best and safest methods.

       "God Willing, with the increased vaccination rate, the stress on public health can be reduced," he said.

       On Sunday (Aug 8), the NSC agreed to ease restrictions for those who were fully vaccinated starting Tuesday (Aug 10).

       Among others, couples and parents can now travel interstate while the devout can attend prayers at mosques and other houses of worship – provided that they can show proof of their digital vaccination certificate upon entry.

       In states under Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan, they can even dine in at restaurants, carry out non-contact sporting activities outdoors and at clubhouses and travel with stays in hotels and homestays.

       All states have transitioned to Phase Two and beyond except for Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan, Kedah, Johor, Malacca and Putrajaya.