SIBU: Residents here have been urged to report any mass gathering activities among their neighbours.
Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting, in a live broadcast on SMC’s website on Tuesday (April 27), said they should act as the eyes and ears of authorities for the enhanced standard operating procedure (SOP) violations during the on-going Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).
“If there are a lot of cars parked outside the house and there are individuals crowded in the yard or backyard, please report to the authorities.
“For the time being, we do not encourage gatherings or any group activities, including barbecue, birthday, wedding and so on.
“If it’s a funeral then it’s okay because every death now needs to be notified with the District Office or the Sibu Divisional Disaster Management Committee (DDMC).”
Ting said the government was concerned about the occurrence of activities in neighbourhoods in general.
“I have heard people complain in Sibu Jaya that under the administration of the Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC), barbecue activities were often held in the neighbourhood.
“That’s why in SMC administrative areas, I don’t want this to happen. I need the public, especially residents in housing areas, to report to the authorities of such activities.”
He explained that this was necessary to help the government monitor the enhanced SOP in a neighbourhood.
Efforts to combat the pandemic should not be left to the authorities alone but also the public, he added.
“If you make a report, your identity will not be revealed. Do not worry.”
The public, Ting said, could also take photos, and they could contact the Covid-19 Sibu Operations Room at 084-323224 or 013-9994158 (WhatsApp only).
He also reminded the public not to attend any gatherings outside as well.
“Exercise alone, do not gather. That is how it is when cycling or merentas desa (cross country). But I recommend that you stop this leisure activity for your own good.
“When we do such activities, we would not wear face masks and the air we breathe outside does not guarantee your safety.”
