State governments do not have the power to implement a 'lockdown' to contain the Covid-19 outbreak as the decision lies with with the Prime Minister and Home Minister, says Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

“The decision to declare a ‘lockdown’ lies in the hands of the Prime Minister and Home Affairs Ministry. At the Selangor state level, I will discuss with the Special Committee members regarding the Covid-19 pandemic, he said when met after the Selangor State Assembly on Monday.

Amirudin added that the decision to implement a lockdown cannot be made lightly as it could cause panic among the people.

"If we rush the announcement, it will cause widespread panic."

“Implementing a lockdown will involve several aspects such as the army and security personnel. Food supplies and inventory must be considered," he said, adding that the Covid-19 situation in Selangor is still under control.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba on Monday, through his official Facebook page, denied that there was a “lockdown” order in Malaysia because of Covid-19.