Dr Noor Hisham Hopes A 'Tsunami' Of New COVID-19 Cases Doesn't Happen In Malaysia
With 15 new cases today, the country recorded its lowest daily COVID-19 numbers since the Movement Control Order (MCO) began over 70 days ago.
By Sadho Ram, Alyssa J. Oon — 27 May 2020, 05:58 PM — Updated over 4 years ago
Malaysia today recorded 15 new COVID-19 cases
Today's tally of new numbers is the lowest since the Movement Control Order (MCO) began on 18 March, Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah announced during his press briefing, 27 May.
Prior to this, Malaysia had recorded its lowest numbers on 12 May at 16 new cases.
However, he also warned that the Ministry of Health (MOH) is worried about an expected increase in new cases due to Hari Raya visits and interstate travel amidst the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).
In the last two days, there was a massive spike in the new cases with 172 on 25 May and 187 on 26 May. Majority of these new cases were recorded among migrant workers being detained at immigration centres.
In that regard, Dr Noor Hisham said that Malaysia needs to look into the living conditions of these foreign workers, adding that "we need to do things differently from the past for a better future".
There has been no reported death since 22 May
The COVID-19 death toll stands at 115 as of 27 May.
On another positive side, a total of 42 patients made recovery and were discharged today.
There are eight cases being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and four need ventilator support.
The cumulative total of cases in Malaysia is 7,619, out of which 6,083 have recovered.
According to Dr Noor Hisham, Malaysia contributes only 0.14% of cases worldwide where over 5,700,000 people have been infected
He, however, hopes that a 'tsunami' of new cases doesn't happen, as it might throw the country's healthcare system in a disarray, and urged that following standard operating procedure (SOP) can ensure we avoid the 'tsunami'.
The Health D-G, meanwhile, reminded that today's low number should not be taken as a sign of victory by the people, adding that the fight against the coronavirus is far from over.
He also highlighted that today is the first time we reached single-digit cases of local transmission as out of the 15 new cases, only nine are local.
"Despite the easing of the MCO, we still managed to achieve single digit," he said, before adding that while it's a good sign about progress, the people should still adhere to SOPs.
Speaking about the scare that occurred prior to Hari Raya that forced the Prime Minister to undergo quarantine, Dr Hisham said that the official at the Cabinet meeting had no symptoms except for lethargy.
The Prime Minister tested negative for the coronavirus and is doing well.
