Risk Intelligence (26/02/2021) - Malaysia

Our risk intelligence specialists, led by Ian BETTS, take a 24/7 coverage approach to local, regional and global emerging threats and occurrences. Below is a small sample of our reporting, and you can discuss gaining comprehensive material through our risk intelligence function, and by using our 247 App.

COVID-19 IN MALAYSIA: ANALYSIS, OUTLOOK & ADVISORY – UPDATE

Our main report provides an update on the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia. Available data indicates that the pace and scope of the outbreak have begun to contract, as the number of average daily new infections and active cases continues to decline. These recent positive trends persisted throughout the week, suggesting that a tipping point has been reached, and that the outbreak has effectively begun to recede.

Meanwhile a series of restrictions remains in place across Malaysia. A state of emergency remains in effect, suspending parliament and granting the government and security forces extra powers to combat the outbreak.

The government has declared a nationwide interstate travel ban and a Movement Control Order (MCO), which was extended last week to 4 March for Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor and Penang, while Kedah, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Putrajaya, Labuan and Sabah will be placed under a less strict Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO). Sarawak will remain under CMCO through 1 March, while Perlis will be placed under Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) until 4 March.

International travel remains curtailed. Interstate and inter-district travel remain banned in areas under MCO, and many social gatherings and events remain prohibited. Only businesses in five essential economic sectors across MCO areas can operate at reduced capacity, including manufacturing, construction, services, trade and distribution, as well as plantations and commodities. Several retail businesses and sports venues were allowed to re-open in mid-February, and deliberations for additional re-openings and an end to the ban on inter-district travel in areas under MCO are ongoing.

Be advised that current policies and regulations are subject to change as the government continues to adjust its response to the unfolding outbreak. The authorities will expand or extend targeted movement controls and business restrictions to other affected areas if new spikes of infection are reported. We advise you to follow the movement control order and comply with any health measures implemented by the authorities.

We strongly suggest you follow our advisory and recommendations in our main report to reduce personal health risks, and to mitigate the impact of current and possible future restrictions and measures.