KUCHING: The State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) is looking into implementing stricter measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 virus in view of the spike in cases, particularly in Kuching and Samarahan districts.
Stricter measures being proposed include reducing the business operating hours, reducing the number of flights to the state and the re-introduction of police mounted roadblocks.
In a random survey carried out by New Sarawak Tribune, most of the respondents interviewed, however, felt that the business operating hours should remain unchanged.
Ahmad Izwan Yusup, 41, owner of Dapo Cafe
‘I agree that the business operating hours should be reduced. I suggest the businesses should close around 10pm. This way, we can reduce the number of people loitering around and prevent the virus from spreading.’
Victor Kong, 50, owner of Sab E’li Thai Restaurant
‘I don’t think we should reduce the hours for the businesses to operate. I think we should raise public awareness so that they will take the standard operating procedures (SOPs) more seriously.’
Mohamad Sofian, 35, owner of Kopicut
‘What we need to do is to follow every SOP and guideline set by the Health Ministry. Do not be stubborn or selfish and just cooperate by giving your details before entering any premises,’
Ng Siaw Cheng, 41, Heppi Corner Café
‘I think public movements should be restricted just like during the movement control order (MCO). This will stop people from loitering around in large groups and prevent the virus from spreading.’
Maulan Salleh, 45, owner of RJ Café
‘As a business owner, I do not agree to the reduction in the business operating hours. We are struggling to run our business and if the hours are reduced, our incomes will be adversely affected.’
Adrian Gawing Kenny Jimbon, 36, owner of Go Geena Cafe
‘The business operating hours should continue normally. Malaysians in general, will go out for dinner at different times. It is not fair if we reduce the business operating hours like before. The peak hours for dining out are between 7pm and 10pm. Closing very early will surely kill our business slowly.’
