KUCHING: The Covid-19 pandemic continues to have its grip and cause detrimental impacts on Malaysia with continuous increasing number of daily cases nationwide.
Despite the various initiatives, advocacy efforts, and regulations implemented by the government to keep cases at bay, the nation’s cumulative number of Covid-19 cases reported was 183,801 with 678 deaths recorded as of last Sunday.
Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob recently said that although almost 95 percent of the public are complying with the standard operating procedures (SOPs), particularly on the use of face mask, there is still inadequacy in adherence to physical distancing.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to the public to get their comments on the matter.
Ng Li Shan
I do agree that it is rather difficult and constrictive to not allow people to move freely as they wish, but it is obvious that this virus spreads like wildfire. I hope that everyone would follow the government’s orders, especially with staying at home and practising social distancing. We must always remember the consequences of ignoring the new normal.
Aida Yasmin Azhar
As a public transport user, I notice that it is quite challenging for the public to adhere to social distancing, especially during rush hour. I believe that the ‘work from home’ concept should be enforced in a stricter manner because it will help ease the rush hour crowds. When people are expected to commute to and from work on a daily basis, it is difficult to follow the preventive measures instructed by the government.
Johan Arief Jaafar
It is concerning that the number of cases continue to increase even with the implementation of movement control order (MCO) 2.0. This is perhaps contributed by the fact that there are still members of the public who still refuse to stay at home and avoid crowded places. I think it is important for everyone to play their part in helping the government and our nation to win the fight against Covid-19.
Allia Allisa
If we were to implement things like it was during the first MCO, I think it would be more effective in decreasing the number of cases. It was proven that people were more serious and afraid of the virus then; hence, our nation was able to handle it exceptionally well. The public should do their best to obey the SOPs and always remember the dangers that Covid-19 poses to themselves as well as the country.
Sudarsan Chandra Sekharan
The lack of compliance with the SOPs is definitely contributing to the surge of cases in our country. This virus is something that we have to live with, so we must adapt to the new normal accordingly in order to mitigate its consequences. However, I do believe that the SOPs should be made clearer so that it would be easier for the public to remember.
Muhammad Dzulqarnain Adzmi I do feel disappointed and saddened by the selfish and inconsiderate attitude that exists among the public. The government should enforce stricter measures against those who are not complying with the SOPs regardless of their status and position. This is to ensure that our country will be rid of Covid-19 so that our economy can recover.
