Govt Is Studying If Face Shields & Purdahs Are Suitable Face Mask Replacements
The decision is subject to the Health Ministry’s approval, though.
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Senior Minister (Defence) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob stated that the government is currently studying alternative options to wearing face masks – such as face shields or purdahs.
At the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) briefing today, 10 August, the Senior Minister explained that the Cabinet has suggested the alternatives in a bid to lessen the burden on the rakyat who currently pay RM1.50 per disposable three-ply face mask that can only be used one time.
He says that the government has asked the Health Ministry to study the feasibility of wearing a face shield or purdah instead of face masks to curb the transmission of Covid-19 virus.
Face shield, if used, does not need to be changed daily – just needs to be washed. I understand that face shields are not very expensive as well, ranging from RM2 to RM4 apiece. We are also asking if those who wear purdah need to wear face masks, since their nose and mouth are already covered.
Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Senior Minister (Defence).
Once the Health Ministry has approved the alternate options, Ismail Sabri assures that the government will inform the public of the decision.
His explanation on the subject was in response to a reporter’s question on updates regarding the government’s previous assurance that it was looking into suitable face mask options for students in schools.
On 17 July, Ismail Sabri had stated that it is not compulsory for students or teachers to put on a mask when they are in school. However, the government had ruled that wearing a face mask is mandatory in public transportation and crowded public places from 1 August onwards.
READ MORE: The Government Tells Us Exactly How The New Mandatory Face Mask Rule Works
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