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.

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.