KUCHING: The State Disaster Management Committee has announced that as of yesterday, Covid-19 positive cases have increased to 34 statewide.
And the public went into panic-buying at supermarkets, hypermarkets and even ordinary grocery shops after the first three Covid-19 positive cases were announced on March 14. Just like what happened in other countries, many people purchased in bulk causing shortage and inconvenience to others.
Abd Afiq Unus, 22 (factory worker)
‘Panic-buying can be risky and is not necessary. After all, crowding in the supermarkets could spread the Covid-19. It can also cause prices to rise.’
Muhamad Rikhan Shadriq Madeli, 24 (teacher)
‘The public never really acknowledged the danger of Covid-19 until the positive cases were announced. Panic-buying showed they were unprepared or unaware until someone got infected.’
Mohd Adhha Mahri, 42 (policeman)
‘We might laugh at panic-buyers, but their actions are understandable. They want to protect themselves by not shopping too often.’
Nur Amira Ibrahim, 20 (student)
‘If panic-buying is to get a week or a month’s supply, it is understandable as it means people want to avoid going out too often. However, beyond that, it means people are fearful.’
Amirul Asraf Mohd Musa, 23 (student)
‘Being prepared against the Covid-19 is necessary, but the sales of essential items should be controlled or limited so that there’s no shortage in the market. Constantly shopping in crowded places to buy things expose us to the disease.’
Mohd Nazirul Haziq, 24 (broadcast journalist)
‘Panic buying is not necessary. Our prime minister has assured that the country will not be short of essential goods.’
Neysa Beatrice, 24 (self-employed)
‘People should not panic and try to hoard essential items. The Covid-19 is still under control. To avoid areas, just buy necessary things and rush home.’
