KUCHING: Sarawakians in general agree with the state government’s decision to allow inter-district travel, especially for economic purposes.
On Wednesday (Oct 6), the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) announced the lifting of inter-district travel restrictions.
However, it advised the public to continue to strictly follow Covid-19 prevention standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Though many have been fully vaccinated and are able to travel between districts, SDMC advised against making trips to visit one another.
Several members of the public interviewed believed the lifting of restrictions could help the economy recover as well as get Sarawak’s tourism industry back on the saddle.
Jacklin Simo, 31,
Private sector worker
I agree with the government’s decision to allow inter-district travel. This way, our economy can improve as well as to boost our tourism industry. It also allows people to go wherever they want, but SOPs need to be practiced as always, especially when in public places.
Azlan Md Nor, 27,
Physio trainee
Yes, the decision isss much welcomed because the virus had been declared as endemic after all and the economy needs to continue. Any further lockdown or restriction can damage the socioeconomic of families, and can lead to more unemployment and burden.
Adreanna Balqis Madian, 20,
Student
This will ease the burden of people who want to do business or go to the office. This also allows couples or families to finally see each other after a very long time. Furthermore, this will help the state’s economic sector and open up more job opportunities as well.
Rosni Beredai, 24,
Sales promoter
Before restrictions were lifted, it was really a burden for us, especially when we need to go to the hospital or banks because we do not have that kind of facilities in rural areas. I am glad that it has been lifted, but everyone needs to be safe and follow SOP.
Ester Tajai, 24,
Sales admin
Sarawak is one of the states in Malaysia with the highest rate of full vaccination. It’s safe to say it’s should be no problem since we are about to enter endemic phase. In addition, our economy will go back to normal and people can work, but with strict SOP.
Donovan Annan Ah Kim, 24,
Student
Yes, by allowing inter-district travel, many things can be achieved. We can boost our economy and get people back to work, adhering to SOP. For me, it is also easier to meet loved ones or even help people in need during their self-quarantine.
Jerome Bennet, 24,
Health worker
For me, I agree because it is easy for us if our work involves traveling from one place to another. Also it is a good first step for us to practice good hygiene since the state is preparing for the endemic phase. The number of vaccinated is increasing steadily while the number of cases is declining. Let’s hope that it will continue until we hit zero cases.
