The public has been advised to plan their purchase in conjunction with Ramadan beginning this week to avoid congestion at retail premises, especially wet markets and supermarkets.

Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob also warned all parties to obey the directives issued by the authorities and maintain social distancing while at such premises to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection.

"This week we will begin fasting. I know everyone will be shopping with the start of Ramadan. So, I would like to advise people to plan their purchase to avoid crowding at markets.

"I hope everyone obeys the order, including practising social distancing. I see that in supermarkets, social distancing is being adhered to. Sometimes everyone has to line up (before being allowed) to enter the supermarket," he said at a daily press conference on the Movement Control Order (MCO) here today.

Therefore, Ismail Sabri who is also Defence Minister said everyone should plan carefully including choosing the right time to go out and having a list of items to buy to avoid wasting time in the supermarket or market.

"That's why I said we have to plan before we make our purchase. In any case, everyone must comply with the directives," he said.