Therefore, the government is not taking any chances this time around.

Prevention is better than cure

The Star Online reported that the government has introduced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebrations this Friday (31 July).

The new SOPs were announced by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob during a press conference on Monday (27 July).

The new SOPs include:

• Only a maximum of 20 people would be allowed in a house at one time
• Those under home quarantine are not allowed to leave their house or travel back to their hometowns. They are also not allowed to receive guests
• For korban, only a maximum of 10 animals are allowed at mosques and surau, as well as other designated locations (limit based on the size of the area)
• The number of people allowed during korban is 20 per animal
• Feasts are not allowed at the korban site; only takeaways

Ismail said the new SOPs are important to curb the rising of COVID-19 cases, as the number of daily cases are now in the double digits.

And the authorities are not messing around this time, as Ismail warned that those who are found to have violated the SOPs will face stern action.

"Police will be on the ground to monitor public compliance," he was quoted as saying.

However, the good news is, there's no interstate travel restrictions, so you can balik kampung and celebrate Hari Raya Haji with your loved ones.