KUCHING: With Covid-19 cases raging on in Sarawak, members of the public appear to have mixed opinions on whether inter-district travel restrictions should be lifted for the upcoming Hari Raya celebration.
The public is generally supportive of the decision to restrict inter-district travel as the number of Covid-19 cases continues to rise but there is a glimpse of discontent and frustration especially among those who live away from their hometowns.
Some are hopeful that Sarawak would be able to flatten the curve before the Hari Raya celebration, allowing those who live away from their hometowns to return to their families.
In view of this, New Sarawak Tribune managed to speak to members of the public to obtain their views on the matter.
Hardy Mustaqim Imran (Student)
It is a wise decision but I believe inter-district travel should be permitted because people who live away from their hometowns for work would want to return to their hometowns and visit their families during Hari Raya celebration. It will be safe as long as people follow the strict SOPs such as maintaining physical distance and wearing face masks.
Basmawi Mahli (Pensioner)
It is unfortunate if Sarawak decides to prohibit inter-district travel for Hari Raya since I miss seeing my children and grandchildren. But I believe it is the best choice for the people’s safety and health, given the high number of Covid-19 cases on a daily basis.
Muhammad Ameerudin Ibrahim (Technician)
I support the decision to restrict inter-district travel because the number of Covid-19 cases is worsening. We hope that by prohibiting inter-district travel, we would be able to avoid the emergence of a new cluster.
Muhammad Irfan Ismail (Accountant)
It’s difficult to say whether we should allow inter-district restriction but due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases, I think we should not allow inter-district travel as that will be the best decision. We should just postpone our Hari Raya celebration and prioritise our own well-being.
Zubaidah Itom (Retired police officer)
I miss family reunions especially for Hari Raya since all my children work far from home. But I am also concerned about my safety as well as my household’s, so it is best to prioritise our health by prohibiting inter-district travel during Hari Raya in the hopes of avoiding a new cluster.
Azmin Azhar (Private worker)
I disagree with restricting inter-district travel to allow people to visit their families. However, I also respect any decision that will be made. In the future, before any celebration, I hope that we can reduce and control the number of Covid-19 cases to allow those who are living away from their families to go home.
Nur Fatin Batrisya Musa (Student)
Inter-district travel should be discouraged. If a large family gathers during Hari Raya, the chances of the virus spreading are higher. While it is unfortunate that some people are not able to visit or go home to their families, whatever the decision is, it is for our sake.
