KUCHING: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has welcomed the relaxation of the standard operating procedures (SOP), including lifting mask mandates for outdoors, which was another step closer to endemicity for the country.
MMA president Dr Koh Kar Chai said more normalcy will help revive the economy as well as relieve the mental stress that has accompanied majority of the people since the beginning of the pandemic two years ago.
He said public should continue to wear their face mask, when they are indoors or on public transport, as there are many children who are still yet to be vaccinated.
Meanwhile, older adults and those with comorbidities can still be at risk of severe COVID-19.
However, Dr Koh expressed concern about doing away with the travel insurance as it is still unsure if the full reopening of borders will lead to an increased load on the healthcare services should there be an increase in cases.
“Maintaining the need for travel insurance will take the load off the public healthcare system should the unthinkable arise,” he explained.
He also reminded those heading back to hometowns for Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations to do self-tests before their departure, as to prioritise safety when they visit their loved ones.
“A reminder that this relaxation of SOP is not because we are out of the pandemic, but because we need to live with the virus in our midst; and we must not let our guard down as yet.”
