Don't abandon SOPs, Muhyiddin reminds Muslims ahead of Aidiladha

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By New Straits Times July 30, 2020 @ 8:42pm

KUALA LUMPUR: Even as Malaysians nationwide celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha, the people should bear in mind that Covid-19 still poses a very real threat, says Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

In a televised address in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha tonight, the prime minister said Aidiladha should serve as a guide for Muslims in facing the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Aidiladha, he noted, is celebrated by Muslims nationwide in the spirit of repentance and carries significant meaning. He said the tales of the sacrifices by Prophet Ibrahim and his son Prophet Ismail serve as shining examples for Muslims in facing daily challenges.

"Aidiladha this year reminds us of the meaning of patience and acceptance in facing life's challenges. You have all made sacrifices.

"Since March 18, you have all complied with the Movement Control Order (MCO), including the Recovery MCO now in effect. Alhamdulillah, we have managed to control the spread of Covid-19," he said.

However, Muhyiddin noted that the country has yet to win its war on Covid-19. He said Malaysia and many other countries are yet to be free of the virus, with Malaysia even experiencing a rise in cases of late.

"As such, we cannot be complacent. Instead, we must continue to work and break the chain of transmission by adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOP)," he said.

The prime minister also reminded those attending the "korban" festivities to adhere to the SOP, such as not organising any "kenduri" where the korban is done.

Home visits (ziarah), he said, should also be limited to 20 people at a time, with those in attendance advised to avoid shaking hands (salam).

"I am listing these SOP in detail as a reminder so that the celebration tomorrow and the days after are done in an orderly manner. If we are not careful, there is a high chance of Covid-19 spreading during the festivities," he said.

Muhyddin said he also prayed that those who had missed out on the opportunity to perform the haj this year would be able to do so in the future, and that they accepted it in full calmness.

"This is also a form of sacrifice that is held in high regard by Allah SWT," he said.