BY RACHEL MINA
KUCHING: The general public voiced their agreement with the decision of the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) to ease the quarantine requirements upon arrival in Sarawak from other parts of Malaysia.
The decision, which took effect on Sept 16, was taken in light of the state’s increasing vaccination rate.
According to the committee, the relaxation is only applicable for individuals who are fully vaccinated and can provide negative a PCR test result.
During a poll conducted by New Sarawak Tribune, the majority of respondents noted that it will be easier especially for Sarawakians working in the Peninsular Malaysia to return.
Even so, with the restrictions being lifted, they advised the public to continue following the standard operating procedures (SOPs), since the Covid-19 pandemic shows no signs of slowing down just yet.
Mohd Irwan Halik, 24
Firefighter
Sarawakians will no longer have to go through many complicated procedures when entering the state as a result of the relaxation. Because of the 14-day quarantine, it is difficult for people in the government sectors, in particular, to apply for leave.
Mohd Nor Hayat Abdullah, 52
Production operator
While making it easier for people to enter the state, lifting the travel and quarantine restrictions will also help in the growth of the state’s economy. However, it is important to always comply with the existing SOPs.
Nur Cahaya Abd. Yaman, 21
Unemployed
I agree with the decision; furthermore, there are still safety precautions in place, such as guaranteeing a negative PCR test result and obtaining a police permit only after establishing a solid reason to enter Sarawak. The new SOPs make things easier when you’re dealing with an emergency.
Muhammad Zulhafiq Zaiheden, 21
Police officer
I believe that exemption from the mandatory 14-day quarantine is reasonable as long as they are fully vaccinated and guaranteed to be Covid-19 free. I hope the general public understand how tough it is for us in the government sector to apply for leave. People are able to reunite with their families again. The cost for the quarantine is huge for non-Sarawakians to visit their family.
Hazirulnuddin Seidi, 21
Immigration officer
I agree with the decision, it helps us to save time, cost, and budget. It will also make it easier for them to plan ahead of time for the trip.
Kezia Ruran, 23
Student
I agree that the decision is made. However, the state should be prepared to deal with any future possibilities and threats. The public should also take responsibility for reducing the spread of Covid-19 by travelling only when absolutely necessary.
