CORONAVIRUS | The government has decided to extend the movement control order (MCO) for another two weeks until April 14, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said.



Announcing this during a special address broadcasted on national television this afternoon, he said the decision was made as the government expected the number of Covid-19 positive cases to continue to increase.



"I have been given a briefing by the National Security Council and the Health Ministry. The current trend shows that new positive cases of Covid-19 are still increasing.



"This trend is expected to continue for some time before the number of new cases will start to show a decrease.



"This requires the government to continue the MCO for a longer period.



"And thus, the government has decided that the MCO period will be extended until April 14," he added.

Muhyiddin urged the people to stay put at home and not make any unnecessary travel.

"Please stay calm and don't panic. Even though we have extended the movement control order, you don't have to unnecessarily stock up on food because the supply is sufficient.

"I assure you that food is enough for everybody," he said.

Muhyiddin said he is making the announcement now so that the public can be prepared for the extension period.

"For those who are already in their hometowns, there is no need to rush back to Kuala Lumpur this weekend. Stay in your kampung and do not go anywhere.

"For students who are supposed to return to their hostels, do not do that. Wait.

"Office premises that are closed also need not be reopened. If you have anything important to settle in the next two or three weeks, plan from now on how you can manage the matters," he added.

According to the premier, as of noon today, the country recorded a total of 1,796 positive cases, including 17 deaths of which one was a doctor.

He said this means that the number of Covid-19 cases has doubled from 673 one week ago.

The government, Muhyiddin said, would also study the situation to see if there is a need to extend the MCO beyond the new deadline.

"What is important now is that I plead with all of you, please be ready to have to stay at home longer.

"I have ordered all ministries to make preparations to manage your basic necessities during the period of MCO.

"What is important is that all basic needs must be ready and enough. This includes food supply, electricity and water, sewage and sanitary services, communication services as well as logistics, security and public order," he added.

Keep up with the latest information on the outbreak in the country with Malaysiakini's free Covid-19 tracker. Malaysiakini is providing free access to the most important updates on the coronavirus pandemic. You can find them here.