Malaysia will lift coronavirus restrictions this week, PM Muhyiddin Yassin confirms

‘I am aware the government cannot control your lives forever to control the virus,’ Yassin said during televised address

The rate of new coronavirus infections in the country, which in March was among the highest in Southeast Asia, have slowed in recent weeks

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A Malaysian woman watches Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin on television. Photo: EPA

Published: 5:05pm, 7 Jun 2020Updated: 10:44pm, 7 Jun 2020

Malaysia on Sunday said it would reopen nearly all economic activity and allow interstate travel starting June 10, lifting coronavirus restrictions imposed nearly three months ago as it moves to revive an economy battered by the pandemic.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced in a televised address the novel coranvirus outbreak was “successfully” under control and Malaysia would begin a new recovery phase until August 31.

“I am aware the government cannot control your lives forever to control the virus,” Yassin said.

The government will ease restrictions on social, education and religious activities in phases with health guidelines in place, and businesses will be allowed to return to normal operating hours.

Yassin encouraged domestic holidays as travel between states will be allowed, but said international borders will remain closed.

Entertainment centres such as theme parks and night clubs, sports that involve close contacts and events involving a large gathering of people will also not be allowed.

Malaysia had gradually reopened businesses over the past month with social distancing protocols, after shuttering all non-essential businesses and schools, banning public gatherings and restricting travel on March 18.