They now have to live alone in a quarantine centre for a fortnight.

Safety precaution

According to a report by Malay Mail, those who return from an overseas trip will be straight sent to quarantine centres beginning 3 April.

They would then have to stay in the quarantine centre for 14 days.

“When they arrive at the airport, they will be taken by bus immediately to one of the designated quarantine centres, where they will be screened according to our (standard operating procedure) as set by the Health Ministry and National Security Council.

“We advise all family members not to travel to the airport to welcome their child, parent or relative home because they will be sent straight to the quarantine centre,” Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob told the news portal.

He said drastic actions need to be taken because many countries experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases as their citizens abroad returned.

“We realise many of our people are stranded outside the country and they want to return. Some were brought home on chartered flights. Even though we have advised those living abroad who have the means, not to return; we understand and we want to contain the possible risk of the disease from spreading thats why we have to send them straight to the quarantine centres.

“In this modern day and age, parents can still call their children and keep in touch. Yes, they may be separated for the 14 days, but they will still have contact with their families,” he said.