The MPs said the ruling was not in line with Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin’s speech on Monday in which he noted that long periods of isolation can take a toll on mental health.

“For Kuala Lumpur residents, public parks are the most suitable, controlled and safe location to carry out leisure activities in accordance with all standard operating procedures (SOPs) under the National Security Council (MKN),” the MPs said in a statement.

“In fact, all these public parks are located near or adjacent to residential areas.

“For the safety and mental health of KL residents, we ask that DBKL reconsider this decision and immediately hold discussions with MKN to set strict standard rules to enable the use of public parks in KL,” they added.

The statement was signed by Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, Batu MP P Prabakaran, Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun, Wangsa Maju MP Dr Tan Yee Kew, Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh, Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng, Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai and Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil.

Earlier today, DBKL said all public parks and playgrounds under its jurisdiction will be closed from today until further notice.

During his speech to announce the 14-day MCO in five states and the three federal territories which starts today, Muhyiddin said people are allowed to engage in recreational activities, such as jogging and cycling, if they maintain a 2-metre distance from others at all times.

In detailing the standard rules under the MCO yesterday, Senior Minister for Security Ismail Sabri Yaakob said jogging can be done in pairs while cycling has to be done individually.