KUCHING: The State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has been in talks with medical authorities regarding reusable face masks.
According to SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, “(We) have been asking the medical department to give us their view on whether we can use reusable face masks because some countries have been using them.”
“Using disposable face masks…it will be very costly for the public. Reusable masks can be washed and dried and can be used for a certain period of time,” he told the press on Monday (July 20).
SDMC is currently waiting for advice from Sarawak Heath director Dr Chin Zin Hing, adding that the decision would then be conveyed to the public.
Asked to comment on Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s announcement on the possibility of making the wearing of face masks in public places mandatory, Uggah said SDMC supported the proposal.
“We support this proposal because science has shown that the wearing of face masks proved helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
“We are waiting for the final decision from the federal government, and we will discuss with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is SDMC advisor,” he said.
