PUTRAJAYA: Ramadan bazaars will not be allowed while the movement control order (MCO) is in force, says Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the special Cabinet committee on non-health related issues pertaining to the MCO had made this decision during its meeting on Friday (April 3).

“We have come to a decision that for as long as the MCO is in force, there will be no Ramadan bazaars.

“After that, if there is no extension to the order, the National Security Council will come up with a post-MCO standard operating procedure.

"This will, among others, determine if Ramadan bazaars can operate, ” he said.

The second phase of MCO will end on April 14 and Ramadan is expected to fall on April 23.

Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Melaka and Terengganu have cancelled all annual Ramadan bazaars in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced that the state – which has the highest number of Covid-19 cases – has banned all Ramadan markets and bazaars this year.

However, the state will consider lifting the ban depending on the Health Ministry’s stand on the matter.

There are also suggestions for drive-through and online bazaars to be held this year to reduce human contact to stem the spread of the disease.