Comptroller of the Royal Household Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin said the Agong reminded the people to continue practising self-discipline when complying with SOPs to curb the spread of Covid-19, and urged them to be vigilant while conducting their daily affairs.

In a statement today, he said the Agong also expressed his full support for the government’s decisive action to contain the spread of the variant that has been classified as more dangerous and more transmissible than others.

“In particular, the health ministry and the National Security Council are enhancing Covid-19 prevention measures, border control and surveillance measures for travellers into the country, especially from countries that have reported cases involving the Omicron variant,” he added.

Fadil said according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the variant is also likely to have a higher risk of reinfection, and its mutations could weaken the protection offered by vaccines.

He said the Agong reminded the people to be responsible and immediately seek treatment if they were experiencing symptoms and to isolate themselves if they were confirmed positive or detected as close contacts.

He said the Agong was of the view that the sacrifices and efforts to battle the pandemic would be in vain if the country was subjected to a new wave of infections.

Fadil added that the Agong also expressed appreciation for the proactive measures implemented by the health ministry to enhance the preparedness of hospitals and clinics to deal with the possible increase in the number of daily cases due to the Omicron variant.

“His Majesty expressed confidence that with the high level of cooperation and commitment between the people and the government, the spread of Covid-19 infections, especially the Omicron variant, can be contained to ensure the people’s safety and the country’s well-being,” he added.