PETALING JAYA: Thrilled that some outdoor activities are permitted now, futsal fan Hujayshen Nair began calling the courts to book a slot for his game.

       “I called up many courts as soon as I got the news, but they were all fully booked,” he said.

       He ended up going to a court in Subang Jaya with a small group of friends for a friendly match.

       And that was how he got to enjoy his first futsal game in months.

       “Things are different now. Only fully vaccinated players that were identified as low risk were allowed in and there were no spectators.

       “Tournaments and leagues remain cancelled, and teams are also bringing back fewer players to the court,” said Hujayshen, 25, who is captain of the SL Raptors futsal team.

       Operations manager Thashini, 33, and her spouse Sanjay, 36, have been making sure that they stay safe when they take their three dogs for a walk in the neighbourhood.

       As their routine only consists of short walks, the couple opted to not wear masks as they usually steer clear of people.

       “To keep ourselves safe, we walk our dogs at set times; either before 6am, or later at night like 7pm onwards.”

       At times, their two children aged five and seven, would tag along to walk their dogs in the evening.

       “We’ve tried to get the kids to wear masks, but they feel uncomfortable and tend to pull it down.

       As a safety precaution, Thashini only allows her children to cycle or skateboard near her house, and they do not play with other children.

       “We limit their outdoor activities to the front of our house,” she added.

       Sales executive Amanda Wong has made some adjustments to her jogging routine. Instead of her usual rounds at the community stadium with friends, she has opted for shorter rounds alone around her neighbourhood.

       “I’m wary of going to the parks because many people go there,” said Wong, 24.

       Many others like her have also chosen to jog around housing areas, as it is easier to practise social distancing, she said.

       Housewife Yew Ai Vee, 35, takes her two children, aged two and five, on occasional walks around the neighbourhood for some fresh air.

       “I don’t think it’s healthy to keep the kids cooped up in the house for so long, both mentally and physically.”

       Steering clear of crowds and parks, Yew also regularly sanitises when outside.

       They would get a shower upon returning home.

       “We also keep face masks with us on our walks and will put them on when we see anyone walking towards us,” she added.