The Ministry of Health has issued a series of rules and recommendations to navigate the stepwise resumption of public gatherings – including business, socioeconomic, cultural, traditional, religious and political activities – to minimise the transmission of Covid-19.

In a November 12 directive, the ministry said organisers must ensure that all events comply with applicable health measures, such as taking place in a wide space with proper natural ventilation that allows for social distancing of 1.5m at all times.

Designated places for people to sit or stand must be kept clean and disinfected with soap or sanitiser, as the case dictates. Venues must put up “Stop Covid” QR tracing code posters for people to scan in.

Participants must be fully vaccinated against the novel coronavirus and keep personal distance in all instances. They must be masked, wash their hands, undergo temperature checks and present their vaccination cards prior to entry.

People who suspect that they have developed concerning symptoms are encouraged to stay home and monitor their health, the ministry said, recommending rapid Covid-19 tests prior to entry.

Participants who have recently arrived from abroad must fulfil the pertinent quarantine requirements and follow the necessary measures put in place for locals.

The ministry also ordered local authorities to monitor and evaluate the organisation of public events on their compliance with health measures.