More than seven months after the World Health Organisation declared the end of Covid-19 as a public health emergency of international concern – albeit not as a global threat – Malaysia and the world are grappling with an increasing number of cases, a trend that is unlikely to end as the world heads into end-of-year festivities.
There has been no instruction from the government to make it mandatory for Malaysians to get booster jabs following the increase in Covid-19 cases, which have gone viral on social media, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
Health experts argue against making the third Covid-19 booster dose mandatory for the public, emphasising that such a move could trigger unwarranted fears and unease among them, given the sensitivity of the matter.
Bar owners say the upcoming 10% excise duty under Budget 2026 could squeeze margins, drive drinkers to cheaper alternatives, and push small operators to the brink
