SOP non-compliance at Ramadan bazaars: MOH authorises mayors and local council presidents to issue compounds

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KUALA LUMPUR (April 14): Although it’s just the second day of fasting, the issue of non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) at Ramadan bazaars has raised concerns for fearing it could cause the emergence of new Covid-19 clusters.

Yesterday, photos and videos of patrons flocking to the Ramadan bazaars and ignoring the physical distancing rules when buying dishes for iftar there created buzz on social media.

The situation has also gained the attention of Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

In a statement today, he announced that effective today, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has authorised mayors, presidents of local councils (PBTs) and Grade 19 enforcement officers to issue compounds for offences under Act 342, including SOP violations at Ramadan bazaars.

“The National Security Council (MKN) has received several complaints from the public on non-compliance with SOPs at Ramadan bazaars in several locations in Malaysia.

“The matter is viewed seriously because the spread of Covid-19 is still at a worrying level. In this regard, local authorities are urged to take appropriate action in ensuring the SOPs issued by the MKN and MOH are strictly adhered to,” he said.