Malaysia

Sarawak polls must wait, Covid-19 takes precedence: Abang Jo

CM calls on everyone to observe ‘new normal’ during Raya celebration to prevent infection spike

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 12 May 2021 2:30PM

Sarawak polls must wait, Covid-19 takes precedence: Abang Jo
Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Openg says the Sarawak government is doing its best to secure enough Covid-19 vaccines for the state. – Bernama pic, May 12, 2021

by Stephen Then

MIRI – The Sarawak election can be held only after the Covid-19 pandemic is brought under control, despite the automatic dissolution of the state assembly on June 7, said Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Openg.

“Our focus now is curbing Covid-19, which has claimed many lives in Sarawak,” he said in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri message today.

We must stop infections from spreading, and complete the immunisation for Sarawakians by August. The state election will have to wait.”

He said the state government is doing its best to secure enough vaccines for Sarawakians, and this needs help and permission from Putrajaya to get private hospitals here to assist in the immunisation campaign.

On the decision not to impose the movement control order in the state, Abang Johari said a full lockdown will hurt the economy, and that the measures in place currently should be effective in containing the disease.

However, he said, the public must cooperate.

He called on everyone to observe the “new normal” during the Raya celebration, so as to prevent coronavirus cases from increasing.

“We can still enjoy Raya with our loved ones while taking all precautions to stop infections.”

He wished all Muslims a happy and peaceful celebration. – The Vibes, May 12, 2021

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