Selangor police today launched an operation codenamed “Op Cpvid-19” to ensure the people in the state adhere to the movement control order which came into effect from today until March 31.

Selangor Criminal Investigation Department chief Fadzil Ahmad said the operation, which began at 8pm today would focus on popular spots throughout the state, especially in major cities.

All district police headquarters statewide had also been instructed to conduct roadblocks at their respective areas to ensure that people would not leave their homes without a valid reason, he told a press conference in Shah Alam today.

Fadzil said during the early phase of the operation, police focus will be on giving advice, instead of taking action against those who fail to adhere to the order in accordance with the Prevention and Control of Infectious Disease Act 1988.

"For the time being, we will focus on disseminating accurate information about the movement control order to clear any confusion that may arise among them,” he said.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin on Monday announced that Malaysia would be placed under a nationwide movement control order from March 18 to 31 to curb the Covid-19 outbreak.

The order, among others, entails a comprehensive restriction on movements and public gatherings, including religious, sports, social and cultural activities.

- Bernama