Selangor approves mosque congregations without physical distancing

Religious authorities in Selangor have given the green light for the holding of congregational prayers at mosques and suraus without physical distancing from April 1 onwards, in line with the country’s transition towards the endemic phase of Covid-19.

The Selangor Islamic Development Department (Jais) today said that this would be subject to conditions including entry only for those who have been fully vaccinated.

In a statement, it said only individuals who have been fully vaccinated according to the health ministry’s regulations would be allowed to enter mosques and suraus.

For those aged 18 and below, meanwhile, only those who have completed two doses of vaccine will be allowed to attend.

Worshippers must bring their own prayer mats and wear face masks at all times.

The move to lift the requirement for physical distancing at mosques, suraus and houses of worship of religions other than Islam was announced on March 8 as part of the country’s move towards the endemic phase which will begin in April.

Maintaining a safe distance from others had been part of the SOPs since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in the country in early 2020.