KUALA LUMPUR: Life for Malaysians is expected to return to normalcy after almost two years of living under the Covid-19 pandemic when the nation transitions to the endemic phase on April 1, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       The transition phase will be “temporary” because it has to be confirmed by the World Health Organisation.

       Under the transition phase, said Ismail Sabri, operating hours will no longer be limited – the ever-popular mamak eateries, for instance, can operate round the clock.

       This will also allow Muslims to break fast at eateries during Ramadan, he said, adding that the usage of face masks will remain mandatory.

       “Also, registration with the MySejahtera application remains mandatory although it will not be necessary for open spaces which are not crowded,” he added.

       However, the MYSJTrace function must be used at indoor places with many people.

       Other relaxations that will be effective from April 1 include the removal of the 50% capacity limit for event venues.

       Ismail Sabri said this includes weddings, which are currently only allowed to fill up 50% of the venue’s occupancy.

       “However, organisers are encouraged to continue imposing physical distancing rules,” the Prime Minister added.

       He said there will also be no limit on the number of attendees in mosques and houses of worship.

       It is up to the respective state, said Ismail Sabri, to decide whether to impose a limit on the number of attendees in mosques, as Islam comes under the prerogative of the respective state rulers.

       The Prime Minister also said there will no longer be a limit on the number of workers allowed to travel interstate, whether fully vaccinated or boosted.

       This, he said, will be of significance for the economic sectors as it will grant freedom of movement to workers.

       Ismail Sabri said the government believes it is a good time to start moving to the endemic phase because of the high vaccination rate.

       Despite a surge in Covid-19 cases due to the Omicron wave, the percentage of severe infections is at a low 0.7%, he said.

       “The number of Covid-19 patients that require treatment and observation in intensive care units is currently at 42% of the capacity, which is under control,” the Prime Minister added.