Covid-positive voters must wear face masks, says health DG

Covid-positive individuals who cast their ballots in the 15th general election (GE15) must wear face masks, while the use of face masks for other voters is strongly encouraged, says health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

He said voters who test positive for Covid-19 are also not allowed on public vehicles, including e-hailing vehicles.

"(Covid-19 positive voters are not allowed) to stop by anywhere before or after voting and must return home immediately," he said in a statement today.

To ensure that the voting process runs smoothly and safely, and to reduce the risk of infection, Noor Hisham said Covid-19 positive voters must adhere to safe social distancing, which is also highly encouraged for other voters.

He said voters should also use the hand sanitiser provided at the polling stations, or bring along their own.

Noor Hisham said individuals who have yet to receive a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine are advised to immediately register and get the vaccine shot, to protect themselves and those around them.

"Let's work together to reduce the risk of Covid-19 infection to voters and staff at polling stations throughout GE15," he said.

He said healthcare workers would be stationed at polling centres to help facilitate the voting process for Covid-19 positive individuals. 

Early voting begins tomorrow while polling day is on Nov 19.