Just stay home, Muhyiddin appeals to Malaysians

KUALA LUMPUR (March 18): Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (pictured) has appealed to all Malaysians to "just stay home" to adhere to the 14-day Movement Control Order that came into force today, to break the chain of COVID-19 infection.

In a live national address this evening, Muhyiddin said the purpose of the Movement Control Order is to prevent people from crowding certain areas that will expose them to the possibility of being infected by the coronavirus.

"During these two weeks, everyone and their children just have to stay home. Just stay at home. Spend time with your children, wives and family members. No need to go out anywhere. In this way, you are prevented from being infected by COVID-19 and the spread of this outbreak, God-willing, can be curbed. This is the true purpose of the Movement Control Order implemented by the government," he said.

Muhyiddin said he had to address this again today, as he saw many Malaysians sought to return to their hometowns yesterday, with many crowding the highways heading north, south and east of Malaysia.

Bus stations were also noted to be filled with people attempting to 'balik kampung'.

"I am appealing to everyone. Please stay put wherever you are. If you are in Kuala Lumpur, stay in Kuala Lumpur. Those in Johor Bahru, stay in Johor Bahru. Those in Penang, stay in Penang. If you are planning to go back to your hometown, please cancel the plan. I'm only asking for this two-week period," he said.

Muhyiddin also warned that if the containment effort does not succeed, it is possible that the government will have to extend the period of the Movement Control Order.

As such, he said it is important for everyone to abide by the order and isolate themselves as much as possible in their respective homes.

"As prime minister, I have a great responsibility to address this crisis that is plaguing our country. But I can't do this job alone. I need all of your support," he added.

Earlier today, the Ministry of Health said Malaysia has recorded another 117 new cases of COVID-19 infection as at noon, bringing the total confirmed cases to 790. It also confirmed 11 cured cases, bringing the total number of those who have recovered to 60.

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