Covid-19: Penangites returning from Sabah urged to get tested

 

Those returning to Penang from Sabah have been urged to undergo Covid-19 test. - NSTP/File pic

GEORGE TOWN: Those returning to Penang from Sabah are highly encouraged to undergo testing for Covid-19, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He said they could either get the swab test done at government clinics, or at private health facilities at their own expense.

The matter, he said, was decided at this morning's state special security committee meeting.

Chow added that the focus is on those returning from red or yellow zone states.

"Following the emergence of the Ara cluster in the state last Sunday, it was decided that those returning here from Sabah should undergo testing.

"It is my hope that we can all play our part and take collective responsibility to stop the spread of Covid-19.

"As such, I urge each and every individual concerned to undergo testing as an early preventive step to break the chain of infection," he said.

Health experts had recently expressed concern over the Covid-19 situation in Sabah, which they claim has the potential to unleash a "tsunami of cases" if urgent measures are not put in place.

They fear the emergence of new cases and clusters in Sabah means the state is going down the path of the Philippines or Indonesia in terms of infection rate.

Sabah recorded its seventh Covid-19 cluster this week.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow says the focus is on those returning from red or yellow zone states. - NSTP/DANIAL SAAD

Meanwhile, Chow said the committee also decided that the operating hours of all entertainment outlets will end at midnight. Pubs and discos are still forbidden from operating.

He said for 24-hour convenience stores, they can remain open until 2am.

He added that throughout the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, local authorities will allow celebrants to dine at the festival tents, with strict standard operating procedures (SOP) being adhered too.

"The Penang government hopes the people will continue to stay strong and stand united in fighting the challenges of the pandemic and current economic situation to ensure the state remains competitive.

"We will stand with you and I believe the people will be able to weather through and win the war against the pandemic," he added. - NST