Updated 6.15pm: CORONAVIRUS | Malaysia has recorded 106 new Covid-19 cases as of noon today, bringing the total to 1,624 cases, according to Health Ministry director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

The increase is the lowest in 10 days. It comes after a record increase of 212 yesterday.

Of the 106 new cases, he said 43 were traced to the cluster of infections from a tabligh gathering at a mosque in Sri Petaling late last month.

Noor Hisham (photo) also said one new death was recorded today, bringing the total death toll to 15.

The latest victim is Patient 1,519, a 70-year-old Malaysian man.

"He had a history of diabetes and high blood pressure and is suspected of having close contact with a Covid-19 positive patient," Noor Hisham told a press conference in Putrajaya today.

He said Patient 1,519 was believed to have been in close contact with Patient 703 during Friday prayers.

Noor Hisham also said the deceased patient had symptoms such as fever and cough for a week and shortness of breath for three days.

He was treated at Sultanah Fatimah Specialist Hospital in Muar on March 18.

However, his condition deteriorated and he was put on a ventilator in the intensive care unit (ICU). He passed away today at 5.35am.

"The Health Ministry conveys its condolences to his family," said Noor Hisham, adding that the public should not to target, discriminate or stigmatise the tabligh group.

"What is important is to help trace and treat Covid-19 infections amongst them, their family, and close contact," he said.

Meanwhile, Noor Hisham said the number of Covid-19 patients in ICU increased from 57 to 63.

Of this, he added that those who need ventilators to breath remain at 27.

In a related development, he said another 24 patients have recovered from Covid-19.

This brings the total recoveries to 183 cases.

Noor Hisham reiterated the importance of staying home during the movement control order period and to practice social distancing.

Economic activities in the country have come to an almost standstill following the enforcement of the order beginning March 18.

Under the order, non-essential businesses and services have been instructed to shut while people are discouraged from leaving home except for pressing reasons.

The partial lockdown is expected to end on March 31 but it could be extended.

Keep up with the latest information on the outbreak in the country with Malaysiakini's free Covid-19 tracker.