restrictions 28 days after Brunei records no new infections. The Ministry of Health has retracted this statement and will provide a clarification later today (April 3, 2020).

Another two patients tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, bringing the total to 133.

One of the new cases is a close contact of a previously confirmed patient. The other case involved a local man who recently returned from the United Kingdom via Singapore on April 1.

Giving an update on Patient 121, the minister said investigations have revealed that the 21-year-old is linked to the Tabligh cluster as he met some of the coronavirus-infected members last month.

There are now 76 people being treated at the National Isolation Centre after four patients were discharged overnight, bringing the total number of recoveries to 56 people.

Threeleave six months after they joined their place of work.

Home Affairs Minister YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong said the amendment was made to safeguard the well-being of private sector employees as they may be required to undergo quarantine, self-isolation or medical treatment.

The temporary measure takes effect on March 9 until further notice.

The one-month employment period was recommended following consultations with the Manpower Planning and Employment Council and several private companies that are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the minister said.

He also called on private employers to protect the welfare of their staff by providing work alternatives to coronavirus-affected employees, including allowing advanced annual leave for those who are not eligible for paid sick leave and implementing flexible working