KUALA LUMPUR – Genting Highlands casinos have been ordered to close, about a month after a group of tourists who visited the hill station tested positive for Covid-19.
Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the directive issued on Friday will be applied immediately.
However, he did not elaborate on previous operation circumstances, nor the reason behind the closure or how long it will take effect.
“I didn’t know the casinos were operating before this. I have ordered for their closure yesterday (Friday),” he told The Vibes in a brief message yesterday.
On April 22, a group of 28 tourists from Alor Star, Kedah, had reportedly travelled to Genting Highlands through the government-authorised green travel bubble concept.
While there is no official confirmation that the tourists visited the casinos, speculation is rife on social media that this is the case.
On April 24, upon their return to Kedah, several group members started experiencing Covid-19 symptoms. On May 7, the Health Ministry confirmed that 16 out of the 28 individuals tested positive for the virus.
It is understood that the ministry is currently detecting close contacts, but has yet to identify the index case.
Facebook user Khai Beng Tan had previously said the reason behind the recent climb in cases in Alor Star is due to the travellers who had gone to the popular tourist destination.
He alleged that Resorts World Genting (RWG) had offered free accommodation and transport in return for them spending a minimum of RM200 at the casinos.
Twitter user @lfc_eddie said this is the case, claiming that it has been confirmed by one of his friend’s relatives who was part of the group.
It is understood from individuals familiar with the matter that the casinos have enforced strict standard operating procedures, including limiting the number of people in the premises.
When contacted for confirmation on the closure, a Genting Malaysia Bhd spokesman said she is not at liberty to confirm the issue, and instead requested an email be sent to the company.
The Vibes is awaiting a response from Genting.
Three Genting Highlands localities were placed under the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) from May 10 to May 23.
During the first MCO last year, RWG had to close its doors from March 18 to June 19. During MCO 2.0, its resorts had to shut from January 22 to February 18.
However, under the current MCO 3.0, which began on June 12 and allows most economic sectors to operate, RWG has remained open but with restrictions on gaming and retail offerings.
Among others, Genting Casino, Genting Club and Genting Club Private Gaming are open only to Genting Rewards members. – The Vibes, May 23, 2021
