KUALA LUMPUR: The wearing of face masks remains mandatory in Malaysia, says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

       When asked if the country will follow Singapore in removing the mask mandate when outdoors, Khairy said Malaysia’s existing standard operating procedures (SOP) have always had imposed certain exemptions on mask wearing.

       “Our masks mandate will still remain. But maybe some are not really clear that our SOPs state that they are not mandatory in certain situations, such as when not in the vicinity of another individual.

       “Masks are not mandatory when at home with family, or in a hotel room or workspace when not interacting with another individual.

       “You are also allowed to remove your masks when in your own vehicle.

       “Other situations when masks are allowed to be removed include during sports and recreational activities, stage performances or when dining.

       “Those with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, or those with breathing difficulties are also exempted from wearing masks,” said Khairy at a press conference at Parliament.

       Singapore had just announced that masks are not mandatory outdoors, among several other easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

       They, however, remain mandatory indoors.