Izah Azahari
The COVID-19 Steering Committee announced the extension of the Early Endemic Phase for one month from February 15 until March 14, with the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong in his capacity as the COVID-19 Steering Committee Co-Chairman announced the extension during a press conference yesterday.
The minister also shared that the movement restriction implemented during Operasi Peralihan, the directive to stay at home from midnight to 4am, will also be extended until March 14.
“The extension of the Early Endemic Phase is made in consideration with the recent rise in COVID-19 infections,” said the minister.
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar said the government will continue to monitor the spread of the virus, and will do its best to ensure that measures are taken in the interest of the country’s citizens and residents safety.
“This extension also allows more time for the government to ensure that infection cases as well as bed occupancy rates at isolation centres remain low; intensify efforts to increase the coverage of vaccine booster doses as soon as possible; and subsequently for the provision of vaccinations for children aged five to 11 as soon as the vaccine supplies are obtained, Insya Allah,” he said.
The minister also reminded the public to continue adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) such as physical distancing, ensuring venue capacity limits, wearing face masks, maintaining cleanliness, and the mandatory use of the BruHealth app.
Meanwhile, the use of the antigen rapid testing (ART) kit prior to entering premises is encouraged, the minister added.
Those yet to get inoculated or have not completed their vaccination protocol are advised to do so immediately to preserve the safety, security and well-being of all.
“We must continue to pray, work together, and have faith in Allah the Almighty that we will be safe from the COVID-19 pandemic,” the minister said.
