KUALA LUMPUR, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia is introducing comprehensive restrictive measures including closing shops and schools and imposing travel bans, in an effort to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced Monday.

In an evening televised address, Muhyiddin explained the government had no choice but to implement the measures as the number of cases had spiked in recent days.

"The government takes the situation seriously during this dangerous virus threat," he said, stressing that the priorities of his government is to prevent the spread of this new outbreak from infecting more people."

Among the measures outlined were a comprehensive ban on movement and mass assembly throughout the country including religious, sports, social and cultural activities and any place of mass gatherings, except for shops and supermarkets so people may purchase essential goods.

All Malaysians are prohibited from traveling overseas. Those returning when the measures are effective are to undertake health screening and quarantine themselves at home for 14 days. Foreign nationals and tourists are completely barred from entering the country.

Additionally all schools and educational institutions will be closed as well as all non-essential government and private premises except for those considered critical including water, energy, security and banking.

The measures will be effective from March 18 to March 31, Muhyiddin said.

The latest announcement came after a sudden spike of cases in Malaysia in the past few days. The country reported 125 new confirmed cases on Monday, which brought the total number in the country to 553.

Muhyiddin urged the public to comply with the restrictions, pointing to the success of countries like China, while assuring the public that there would be sufficient supplies of food and essentials as well as health protective gear like face masks. Enditem

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