BETONG: Headmen and members of the security and development committees (JKKK) from nine longhouses here have been tasked to carry out a comprehensive community policing programme.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the longhouses were under lockdown for Covid-19 thus movement of residents should be monitored at all times.
“We want them to continue to observe standard operating procedures (SOPs). They are not to move around so that they can help prevent the spread of the virus,” he said in statement on Tuesday (March 2).
He stressed that the JKKKs were vital in this new responsibility of ensuring that longhouse residents follow SOPs set by the government.
“Some residents, who refused to comply, had snuck out and this lackadaisical attitude of theirs had resulted in an increase in positive cases.
“The time has come for all of us to take responsibility, and help stop the spread of the virus.”
Earlier, Betong Resident Friday Belik and divisional medical officer Dr Johnny Pangkas had briefed Uggah on the latest situation.
Betong Division recorded 48 new cases on Tuesday, bringing the total to 202 cases, and one fatality.
Uggah, who is also Sarawak Disaster Management Committee chairman, said the Resident’s Office would brief the JKKKs on how to execute their new responsibilities.
He also expressed his satisfaction with Betong Divisional Disaster Committee on the reconstruction progress of the eight shoplots destroyed by fire in Spaoh on Feb 4.
