JOHOR BARU: The people need not worry about going out to fulfil their responsibilities as voters at the March 12 Johor election amid an increase in Covid-19 cases, says Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa.

       Despite some flexibility in the standard operating procedure (SOP) during the campaigning period, he said the layout of the voting process and the SOP set could control the spread of Covid-19.

       “There is no need to be afraid, and when one goes out to vote there may be a self-test process to go through. In fact, the polling centres have designated areas in the event there is a Covid-19 positive case. At the authorities’ level, they have layouts in accordance with the SOP and new norms in managing the Johor polls.

       “InsyaAllah, all will proceed well and under control,” he said at a question-and-answer session during the Bicara Keluarga Malaysia programme at Johor RTM yesterday.

       He said this when asked about the campaigning SOP issued by the Election Commission (EC) which gave more flexibility compared to previous state elections despite the spike in Covid-19 cases.

       Activities such as ceramah, talks, physical campaigning and house-to-house visits will be allowed throughout the 14-day campaign period, Bernama reported.

       According to the SOP issued by the EC, ceramah and campaigns will only be allowed at party offices and official operations rooms with participation limited to 100 people.

       House-to-house visits must not exceed five people entering homes or meeting the occupants.