Critical Alert
Malaysia to ban interstate travel to and from Sabah State Oct. 12-25 due to COVID-19. Strict, localized measures in place in some districts.
Alert Begins 06 Oct 2020 07:24 AM UTC
Alert Expires 26 Oct 2020 04:00 PM UTC
- Event: COVID-19 restrictions
- Location(s): Sabah State (map)
- Time Frame: Oct. 12-25
- Impact: Heightened security, business and transport disruptions
Summary
The central government of Malaysia will impose an interstate travel ban to and from Sabah State, Oct. 12-25, due to high local coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity. Individuals traveling due to medical emergencies and people providing essential services will be exempt from the travel restrictions. In addition to the planned inter-state travel restrictions, additional controls are being imposed in several districts in Sabah's southeast and northwest.
Localized protocols are in place in Kunak, Lahad Datu, Semporna, and Tawau districts in the southeastern region of the state through at least Oct. 12. Entry and exit restrictions are in effect for these localities; the measures also affect those who need to travel into or out of the districts for work. Only essential businesses and services, including medical facilities, will be authorized to operate on-site.
Similar stringent controls, including entry and exit restrictions, will be in effect in Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, and Putatan districts in the northwestern part of the state from Oct. 7 until at least Oct. 20. Public transport services, with the exception of taxis and ride-hailing services, will cease operating. Taxis and ride-hailing services will be allowed to operate between the hours of 0600-2000. Only essential businesses and services will operate on-site. Traditional markets will open 0600-1400, while food establishments and petrol stations can operate 0600-1800 daily. Nonessential businesses must allow employees to either telecommute or take leave from work. Authorities will suspend education institutions, night and wholesale markets, places of worship, as well as cultural and sporting activities. Only two persons from each household may leave their homes at a time to obtain essential supplies.
Authorities will deploy additional security personnel and erect checkpoints across Sabah State to enforce the controls. Severe business and transport disruptions are likely in the affected districts during the movement restrictions. Officials may expand or extend the measures if local COVID-19 activity remains high.
Advice
Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Avoid all nonessential operations in the affected districts. Confirm appointments. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.
Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
Location(s) affected by this alert
- SANDAKAN*
- KOTA KINABALU*
- TAWAU*
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