“To all visitors, please wear a face mask at any of our immigration counters or offices to curb the spread of Covid-19,” the state’s immigration department said in a Facebook post.

The wearing of face masks is also mandatory for all officers, it added.

According to the post, the notice has been effective since Dec 14.

Covid-19 cases in the country have gone up this month, with last week recording a 62.2% increase to 20,696 cases.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said 97% of those affected exhibited mild symptoms and did not need hospitalisation. However, 151 cases were admitted to the intensive care unit, with 96 patients requiring respiratory assistance.

The health ministry also reported 28 deaths in the past week, primarily patients aged above 60 and those with comorbidities.

Dzulkefly said the ministry was prepared for a potential surge in hospitalisations and to ensure adequate staff, supplies and equipment to provide sufficient care in the event of an influx of patients.

He also advised the public to undergo testing if they experienced symptoms and to consult doctors for antiviral treatment, if eligible. The public is also recommended to wear masks in crowded places and practise good hygiene.

However, Dzulkefly said there was no need for movement restrictions for now.

Meanwhile, health director-general Dr Radzi Abu Hassan has assured the public that there is enough supply of vaccines.

“We have sufficient vaccine supply, especially for those with underlying comorbidities,” Radzi said, adding that those interested in a booster jab could simply “walk-in” for their inoculation.