LARGE New Year’s Eve celebrations will not be allowed due to the discovery of the second Covid-19 Omicron case in the country, says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

       He said only small and private New Year’s Eve and Christmas gatherings will be permitted.

       “New Year’s Eve and Christmas celebrations with family members and friends are allowed for now.

       “However, Covid-19 tests must be done before attending these events,” he told reporters in Parliament.

       On the standard operating procedure (SOP) for travellers from the United Kingdom, he said they would need to do daily self-tests during their quarantine.

       They will also be fitted with a wrist digital tracker.

       Meanwhile, the National Unity Ministry said Christmas choirs would be allowed but they must adhere to social distancing and mask-wearing.

       “Visiting will be allowed for fully vaccinated people only. Carolling from house to house will not be allowed and Christmas Day stalls are dependent on the jurisdiction of local authorities,” it said in a statement.

       This SOP will be enforced on Dec 24 and 25.