Following Macau’s announcement on Sunday that the wearing of masks in indoor and outdoor settings is no longer required, Hong Kong has issued a similar order with its mask mandate lifted as of Wednesday.

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Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said that the wearing of masks indoors, outdoors and on public transport will now be optional, although it will remain a requirement in hospitals, homes for the elderly and other high-risk places.

“According to the data, the epidemic is under control in Hong Kong and there are no major signs of a resurgence, so I believe Hong Kong has established an extensive and comprehensive barrier,” Lee said.