PUTRAJAYA: With Malaysia still in a transitional phase towards endemicity, Khairy Jamaluddin reminds Malaysians not to be complacent towards the Covid-19 situation.

       The Health Minister said many countries made the mistake of declaring victory on Covid-19 too soon, thinking they had successfully overcome the pandemic.

       "Some countries thought they had won against Covid-19, only to find their case numbers increasing.

       "We do not want to be like these countries.

       "They removed all Covid-19 restrictions and preventive measures and now they are facing new infection waves.

       "Let's not repeat the same mistakes. From time to time, the Health Ministry will announce relaxations of curbs so that we can return to our normal lives.

       "But let us do it slowly. It is okay to be late as long as we are safe," said Khairy at the launch event of the new Hospital Putrajaya block.

       Khairy said Malaysia’s pandemic management has so far shown it is nearing success.

       “Our case numbers are under control. The number of hospital admissions as well Covid-19 death rates continue to go down. This includes admissions into intensive care units (ICU).

       “This is why the government is confident to announce more and more Covid-19 relaxations. Today, we are able to hold this launch event. Construction projects can also be completed earlier,” said Khairy.

       Khairy said the Health Ministry will be announcing more relaxations ahead of the Hari Raya celebrations, although he did not reveal what they are.

       It is understood that the announcement could be related to the face mask mandate, which has been in place since August 1, 2020.