Malaysia will reopen businesses from Monday, May 4, with health protocols in place, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said in his live Labour Day speech to address the nation.

He said: "Almost all economic sectors and business activities will be allowed to operate from May 4, depending on protocols and SOP decided by authorities."

For example, restaurants with enough space to ensure social distancing between customers will be allowed to open.

But some activities will remain closed, such as cinemas, Ramadan bazaars, Hari Raya Aidilfitri bazaars, karaoke lounges, reflexology centres, nightclubs, sale carnivals, as well as all conferences and exhibitions.

These involve mass gatherings, and where social distancing is difficult to enforce.

Sports can go on but limited contact required

Sports activities that involve body contact and mass gatherings will also not proceed.

These include football, rugby, swimming in public areas and all indoor sports.

There will be exceptions as outdoor activities such as badminton, tennis, cycling, golf and running in small groups with not more than 10 people, will be permitted.

Religious activities also out

Religious activities such as Friday prayers and others that involve mass congregations in mosques will not be permitted.

Other activities involving movement not allowed

Interstate travel is not allowed, including to return to hometowns for the upcoming Aidilfitri celebration.

Schools and institutions of higher learning will remain closed.

A full list of activities that will is prohibited will be reflected on the National Security Council website.

The list will be reviewed.

Conditional MCO

Muhyiddin described this new phase as the "conditional movement control order (MCO)".

The MCO has been enforced since March 18.

It was extended three times until May 12, and is aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19 in Malaysia.

As of Friday, May 1, there were a total of 6,002 confirmed Covid-19 cases in Malaysia.

A total of 4,171 or 69.5 per cent have been discharged.

Malaysia registered double digit cases on May 1.

Economic losses mounting

The prime minister highlighted in his speech that Malaysia's economy has suffered a loss of RM2.4 billion (S$790 million) each day since the MCO was implemented.

The total losses are estimated at RM63 billion (S$21 billion).

Malaysia would see a further loss of RM35 billion should the MCO be extended for another month, the prime minister said,

In his speech, Muhyiddin highlighted that residents showed discipline to stay at home during the MCO and these efforts have brought encouraging results.

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