In a statement issued after the Covid-19 pandemic management special committee meeting today, he said Pahang will move into Phase 4 on Friday.

Johor will now be joining the Klang Valley and Melaka, which moved into Phase 3 on Oct 1. Perlis, Terengganu and Sarawak are also still in Phase 3.

Kedah, Penang, Perak, Kelantan and Sabah remain in Phase 2 while Negeri Sembilan and Labuan are the other areas in Phase 4.

Hishammuddin added that “thaali” at Hindu temples and holy matrimony ceremonies at churches are now allowed. The national unity ministry will announce the relevant SOPs for Hindu and Christian religious associations soon.

Opening times for wholesale markets in states under Phases 2 and 3 would now be subject to their licences and permits with local councils, so long as they comply with SOPs and workers are fully vaccinated.

Public auctions are also allowed for a maximum of 30 minutes a session, only on the 1st and 7th of every month, subject to certain conditions.

All bidders and workers must be fully vaccinated, with maximum crowd capacities depending on the different phases of the recovery plan.

A maximum of 60% of workers and 50% of bidders are allowed for auctions in states under Phase 2, 80% workers and 80% bidders under Phase 3 and 100% workers and bidders under Phase 4.

Meanwhile, the tobacco sector and related companies in the supply chain are allowed to resume operations in states under Phase 2 and above.

Hishammuddin reminded the public not to be complacent as the country aims to #ReopenSafely.

“Behind the relaxations announced, the reality is, we are all forced to live with the Covid-19 virus.

“Therefore, aside from continuing to practise the SOPs, it is important for us all to increase self-assessment, not just to protect ourselves but to also protect our surrounding communities from Covid-19.”

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