KOTA KINABALU: The number of Covid-19 cases in Sabah is showing an upward trend following cultural and religious celebrations in May, as expected.

       State Covid-19 spokesman Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the number of new infections jumped to 78 on Friday (May 13), an increase of 37%.

       "The increase in the number of infections caused by festive activities was anticipated," he said.

       He urged the public to remain vigilant and follow the SOP put in place by the Health Ministry.

       The month-long Pesta Kaamatan celebrations started on May 1 and was followed by Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

       He said 12 districts recorded an increase in new infections with nine other districts recording a decrease.

       Overall, Masidi said that only nine districts did not record any new cases in the past 24 hours.

       A total of 16 districts recorded single-digit new cases with five of the districts registering one new case and five other districts recording two new cases.

       A total of 76 out of 78 cases Friday are in Categories 1 and 2, with two cases in Category 3. No cases were reported in Categories 4 and 5.