KUALA LUMPUR: The government has decided to allow night markets, barbershops, hair salons and car wash services to resume operations throughout the Movement Control Order 2.0 (MCO 2.0) period.
Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the three business activities would be allowed to operate under strict compliance of the standard operating procedure enforced throughout the implementation of the MCO 2.0.
The latest directive would be immediately enforced beginning tomorrow, he said.
"The decision was made following a risk assessment conducted by the Health Ministry, which had also taken into consideration the total number of (Covid-19) clusters involving each of these sectors," the Defence Minister said during a televised press conference today.
Night markets would be allowed to operate from 4pm until 10pm under strict compliance with the SOP, which includes setting a one metre distance between each stall.
The entry and exit points at these night markets must also be separated, he said.
"In addition, the People's Volunteers Corps (RELA) would be deployed at the site to ensure strict compliance with the SOP," he said.
Barbershops and hair salons are also allowed to operate until 10pm.
"However, barbershops and hair salons are only allowed to provide haircuts, not facials and other services.
"Their staff are also required to wear face shields. It is better if they can wear face shields and face masks.
"In addition, operators should allocate one disposable apron for each of their patron and ensure the equipment used such as scissors are sanitised."
Car wash services are also allowed to operate until 10pm.
In the event businesses are found to have positive Covid-19 cases or if they breach the SOP, Ismail Sabri said the authorities would instruct them to close.