SIBU: The announcement of the recovery movement control order (RMCO) shows that the government feels that the country is not out of the woods yet in terms of the threat from Covid-19, said Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan branch chairman Robert Lau.
“However, I believe this will be the last phase. This phase will see many of daily activities within the country returning, particularly schools and interstate travels.
“I hope more activities will be allowed sooner rather than later within this phase once the SOPs for these activities are drawn up,” he said to New Sarawak Tribune on Sunday.
According to Lau, humans have to live with this newest virus in very much the same way as they have come to live with all other major health issues that have not been eradicated like HIV, influenza, malaria and dengue.
“It is pretty clear that people have to live with Covid-19 for the foreseeable future and this fact cannot be an impediment to daily economic and social activities,” he added.
“We have to now adhere to the continued restrictions in order to prevent the spread of this virus.
“Much focus and funds have been channelled into the fight against this virus over the last three months. These actions and decisions have shown positive results,” he said.
However, unfortunately, other health issues had been given less emphasis and funds.
“In Sibu, we need to focus more on two issues — rabies and dengue. More funds and manpower need to be channelled now to deal with these threats. These two diseases continue to cause fatalities, anxieties and sufferings to the people.
“Nationwide, we need long term and sustainable plans to make the people healthier.
“Those with underlying health issues, particularly those with diabetes and high blood pressure, are more likely to succumb to Covid-19,” Lau said.
He said these two health issues had a lot to do with lifestyle choices.
“This is where the government can implement more policies and actions to force a change in the habits of the people,” he added.
“When the people are healthy, the country will spend less money looking after them,” he said.
