GEORGE TOWN – A team of 12 association leaders has stepped up to form a Covid-19 task force, following a surge in virus infections at Kg Selamat in Tasek Gelugor.
Kg Selamat Village Community Management Council chairman Wong Soon Ping had on Saturday requested for the task force to be formed. Since then, the village has logged 18 coronavirus cases.
Kg Selamat anti-epidemic team chairman Johny Yeoh told The Vibes that there are two hotspots in the village – one at a workshop, and another at a coffee shop in Jalan Enam.
“We narrowed it down to these two locations based on the information we received from those who tested positive for Covid-19.
“Most of them are believed to have patronised the coffee shop. It is helpful that Kg Selamat residents believe transparency can help stop the spread of the virus.
“We requested those who have tested positive to report to us, so we can disseminate the information to the community without revealing their identities. So far, they have been very accommodating.”
Yeoh said the task force uses WhatsApp to discuss data before disseminating information to the residents on WeChat, another messaging platform.
There are three WeChat groups, he added, and each group has about 500 members.
“We publish news regarding the latest Covid-19 infections – including on cases, school statuses, commercial area information, as well as prevention tips and possible hotspots – at least two notices a day.”
The team is looking for volunteers to help run the sanitisation operation at public places, including bus stops.
Six associations have contributed to fund the sanitisation process, namely the council, Seu Teck Sean Tong Moral Education Association, Poh Teck Tung Foundation, Beng Hock Sean Siah Temple, Dewa Seng Hong Worshipper Organisation and Chin Yang Kok Temple.
On May 2, 100 residents, after being advised by the team, got tested for Covid-19.
To help curb the spread of the virus, the team has advised halls, temples and sports facilities to remain closed. Coffee shops and markets are also encouraged to provide only takeaways.
“Of course, these are all suggestions. We cannot force them.
“Most of them have been cooperative, but, as expected, some did complain about losing business,” said Yeoh, adding that he hopes the measures taken will contain the spread until the infections end. – The Vibes, May 5, 2021
