LANGKAWI – Disappointed with certain social media users and news portals, travel industry leaders said it is best that any information on Covid-19 come from the Health Ministry and National Security Council.
Langkawi has been a green zone for several weeks now, they said, and the handful of cases reported on the tourist island months ago were imported, rather than community, infections.
Langkawi Business Association deputy president Datuk Issac Alexander said unverified reports will result in tourists cancelling their bookings.
“We want tourists to come, but they must behave and observe the standard operating procedures. It is also our responsibility to ensure that our service providers and hoteliers practise the SOPs.”
He was responding to claims that actor and social media personality Harris Annuar has tested positive for Covid-19 upon returning from a holiday here.
At the time Harris shared the news on social media on Monday, he was awaiting the result of a second test.
Langkawi is also trending on Twitter after two Instagram influencers reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus following a vacation on the island.
Alexander said the duo are believed to have cycled all the way from Kuala Lumpur, making pit stops during the 500km journey.
“They could have contracted (Covid-19) along the route, but it is best that we leave it to the authorities to determine.”
The majority of tourism service providers heeded health and safety SOPs during the year-end holidays, he said.
“Kita jaga kita – that is our slogan for everybody to uphold.”
Kedah/Perlis Malaysian Association of Hotels chairman Eugene Dass said it is unfair to blame a resort for allegedly not abiding by the SOPs when it is every guest’s responsibility to practise physical distancing, ensure good personal hygiene, and wear masks when in public places.
He said the tourism industry needs full cooperation from all Malaysians if it is to survive the pandemic. – The Vibes, January 6, 2021
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