The history of mask-wearing has been around for centuries, from the Black Plague in the 14th century, right up to the Spanish Flu in the 20th century. And now, in the 21st century, amidst the Covid-19 backdrop.
Yet, masks have remained a controversial subject, despite the science-backed evidence of mask-wearing — to prevent viral spread and to protect the wearer.
From a historical, cultural and ethical perspective, the Covid-19 pandemic is a reminder that we should not discard age-old theories or cultural practices that have kept us safe.
Muslims have often, reportedly, been attacked in some Western countries for donning the hijab, niqab or burqa. It's ironic that now Westerners have started to develop face masks as "a form of identity". Some call it a fashion accessory, others say that it is a manifestation of "self-expression".
In Japan, wearing face masks is seen as a form of politeness. Whatever the reasons, face masks have become a necessity. But with the announcement that mask-wearing in enclosed spaces is now optional, except in public transport and healthcare facilities, it may no longer be "a necessity".
Is it safe to discard mask wearing? At the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, when the alarm to wear face masks began to sound, there were many disgruntled voices.
Reportedly, anti-face mask protest rallies have occurred in some countries, citing that being forced to wear face masks was a violation of human rights and that face masks were ineffective in curbing the spread of the coronavirus. With some 6.5 million deaths worldwide and counting (in Malaysia, more than 36,000 deaths), it has now become clear that face masks have helped, along with other restrictions, such as physical distancing and hygiene care, in reducing overall viral transmission.
An NST online poll found that most Malaysians want to continue wearing face masks. Not a surprise. Nevertheless, the government's move to further relax restrictions mirrors what has been happening in other countries.
For instance, Singapore recently took the same approach, and so far, there has been no sudden surge in cases reported.
Philippines leader President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has reportedly approved a recommendation to end the mandatory face masks outdoors. And in Thailand, mask-wearing has been voluntary since late June.
Germany, meanwhile, plans to end the face mask requirement on flights to and from the country.
Generally, in Europe, face mask rules vary, but it is no longer compulsory to wear one in most countries. It is the same in the United States.
China, it appears, is the only country that continues to enforce mask wearing in all public settings, in line with its zero-Covid policy.
This Leader acknowledges that the risk and threat of Covid-19 has gone down. The next step is to move forward. But we must remain vigilant.
The New Straits Times' cover yesterday mulled: "Are we protected enough? Are there sufficient safeguards to protect Malaysians, especially frontliners and the vulnerable, from the risk of being infected now that the face mask mandate has been lifted?" These are valid questions.
There are at least three factors we need to be watchful of — complacency, which may see the people taking things lightly and disregarding all precautions; the long-Covid syndrome persisting or worsening; and, whether there are more Covid-19 variants or mutations waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting public.