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According to the latest mandates by the Ministry of Health, mask-wearing in most indoor spaces has been [optional] (https://says.com/my/news/moh-face-masks-in-enclosed-spaces-are-now-optional) since September 2022.
Yet, many Malaysians have been opting to keep their masks on — why is that?
A Malaysian user who had been abroad in London for the past few years recently wrote a Reddit post on the culture shock he had upon returning to his native country.
He was initially under the impression that people would be eager to shed their masks, but saw that many Malaysians were still insistent on keeping their masks on.
Fortunately for him, his post was shortly flooded with comments that helped to shed some light on the colourful reasons people are refusing to take off their masks.
1. Shyness/introversion/anxiety
Many introverted Malaysians cited shyness and anxiety as one of the reasons for masking up.
Image via Reddit
Some just don't want to be recognised, and when you're unrecognisable you're automatically immune to paiseh.
Image via Reddit
Image via Reddit
2. To slack off on grooming/hygiene
Sometimes, you just can't be bothered and a mask is a great time saver during your morning prep. :p
Image via Reddit
Image via Reddit
3. They think they look better with a mask on
Image via Reddit
Image via Reddit
Wearing a mask simply gives them more confidence.
However, some complained about being "mask-fished" for exactly this reason.
One user wanted to cover their acne, but they also found that this was counterintuitive.
Image via Reddit
4. So they can secretly JUDGE YOU under their masks
Image via Reddit
One user cited a very specific example — long-winded co-workers.
Image via Reddit
5. They're considerate citizens
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One user stated one of their fears was causing someone who is immune-compromised to suffer health consequences as a result of their negligence.
Another user had their children's health in mind.
Image via Reddit
6. They're still scared of the virus (understandably so)
Image via Reddit
Image via Reddit
One user gave a detailed explanation, stating that newer, more infectious variants are still appearing and they're not something to be taken lightly.
The risk of getting "long COVID" is also present and can spell serious long-term health complications.
