Tan Hoe Chieow, president of the Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia, was quoted as saying that the national unity ministry is expected to make the announcement.

Current rules announced on Thursday under the movement control order allow only family members living in the same house to attend the traditional reunion dinner held by the Chinese community on the eve of the lunar new year, which will be on Feb 11.

Activities such as lion dance, lantern procession, Chingay and other stage performances have also been prohibited.

The rules have been widely derided on social media, with users pointing out that family visits within the same district have been allowed under MCO rules but not for Chinese New Year. An opposition MP said family visits should be allowed, limited to a maximum of 10 or 15 people.

Tan said the decision on the rules was made by the government after religious associations had made suggestions at a virtual meeting on Jan 12, according to The Star. However, the federation was not invited for a second session on Jan 18.

“We have given our input and it is up to them what they want to accept and implement. It is not right to assume that we have all agreed to the SOP (standard operating procedure). We only went to the meeting and gave our views. The final decision is up to the minister and the government.

“There were initial suggestions to limit CNY visits to 20 people and also depending on the size of the house,” he said.