Malaysia's Movement Control Order (MCO) has been extended by another month to June 9, The Star reported.

The announcement for the extension was made by Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in an address on May 10.

It had initially been scheduled to end on Tuesday, May 12.

New Straits Times reported that the decision to extend the MCO was undertaken in the wake of advice by the country's Health Ministry and National Security Council.

Muhyiddin said: "Although we have achieved many encouraging developments in our fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, there are still measures that need to be implemented to contain the outbreak."

He also stated that he was aware of a desire among Malaysians for the government to continue implementing measures to curb the transmission of the virus.

SOPs to remain in place

Free Malaysia Today further reported that the Standard Operating Procedures of the MCO will also continue to remain in place until June 9.

This includes restricting interstate travel for festive occasions.

Muhyiddin added that this did not mean "Hari Raya, Kaamatan or Gawai" could not be celebrated, however.

Families living within the same state can still visit each other, with a limit of 20 people at a time.

In addition, social distancing and hygiene measures must also be taken during visits.

The Malay Mail quoted him as elaborating:

"You do not need to have an open house or cater for big celebrations. And if people visit you they need to adhere to the new SOPs which is keeping a safe distance from each other, washing your hands with sanitisers, wearing a mask and making sure your house is clean. Also, wash every plate and cutlery thoroughly after your guests have used them."

How many cases of Covid-19 does Malaysia have?

As of May 9, Malaysia has a total of 6,589 cases, according to The Malay Mail.

A total of 4,929 cases have recovered from the virus while the number of active cases are 1,552 and the death toll stands at 108.

Top image screenshot from Radio Televisyen Malaysia