Unless you’ve been living under a literal rock for the past couple of months, you’ve probably heard about how its now “compulsory” to wear masks when you’re out in public. Given the ever present looming threat of that feared second wave, it makes sense. What doesn’t make sense however, is getting into trouble for not wearing your mask in your own car.

With social media rife with complaints about how people are getting into trouble for not wearing their masks in cars, we figured we’d do our part by clarifying a few things about the mandatory um, wearing of masks.

First things first. No, you don’t need to wear a mask in the car. In fact, it makes no freaking sense. The only time you should be wearing a mask in the car is if you’re taking public transport (this includes e-hailing services like Grab), carpooling or in the car with friends who don’t reside with you.

That being said, in response to the chatter on social media about being penalised for not wearing masks in the car, the Malaysian police have disclosed that there’s not even been a single summons issued to anyone in the entire country for not wearing a mask in private vehicles since the August 1 ruling.

So it’s either the people on the internet are lying or there’s the odd cop just trying to mess with people. Whatever it is, i’ll reiterate: Wearing a mask in your own car is NOT mandatory. So where exactly is it mandatory for us to be wearing face masks then, you ask?

It’s quite simple, really. For all you religious people out there, if you’re heading to a mosque or house of worship.. it’s a no brainer. Wear a mask. If you’re looking to get your hair cut, nails done or body massaged, wear a freaking mask. Heading to the mall or cinema? Mask on, friends! Your mother going to the market? Make sure she’s wearing a mask! You think the hospital is safe? You’re wrong! Wear a mask.

At this point you can sort of see a pattern, right? If you’re going quite literally anywhere where the presence of other people is a given, you should be wearing a mask.. whether it’s mandatory or not. Don’t complain about it, we all have a part to play.

The only place where it’s ok to not wear a mask in my books is when you’re at home or if you’re driving (in your own car). Other than that, your lack of a mask is not just selfish but also reckless so maybe don’t be that person :’)