Brunei’s COVID-19 Steering Committee recently announced new changes to the existing guidelines under the Early Endemic Phase of the National COVID-19 Recovery Framework that was extended until 31s May 2022.
The recent development was revealed by Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Pehin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar Haji Apong in a press briefing.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at private residences are allowed for a maximum capacity of 30 guests for events held indoors or 200 guests for events held in outdoor areas of the residence, excluding the host.
“Meanwhile, the maximum capacity for events held at event halls is maintained at 300,” said the minister.
He further said that the public is reminded to undergo Antigen Rapid Test (ART) prior to leaving the house, to wear face masks except when eating and drinking, avoid shaking hands and group visitation and to stay home when feeling unwell.
Moreover, the use of facemasks has also been updated whereby it is not mandatory to wear them outdoors although encouraged especially when in crowded places and mass gatherings.
However, it is still a requirement to wear a face mask when inside a public building.
The steering committee in a statement said that the updated guidelines take into account the daily COVID-19 infection rates that have remained low and stable as well as high vaccination rates among the citizens and residents of Brunei.
“As the COVID-19 situation has been kept under control, the reinstatement of mass gathering restrictions to those prior to the start of the third wave would enable us to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri more comfortably and safely,” said YB Pehin Dato Hj Awg Abu Bakar.
The public is also reminded to continue to adhere the Standard Operating Procedures – SOPs and health protocols that are issued.
Further information and details can be found on the Prime Minister’s Office website at www.jpm.gov.bn.
This article was first published on 30 April 2022 in our Weekly Epaper issue 191 |
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
