KUALA LUMPUR – Former international trade and industry minister Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz praised the government’s decision to ease restrictions for the fully vaccinated, but cautioned that additional measures should be taken to control the spread of Covid-19.
She said the opening of borders, certain economic sectors, and schools is a much-welcomed decision given the negative impact of the lockdowns.
However, she warned that long-distance couples travelling interstate may take advantage and visit other friends and relatives, which could result in further sprouting of clusters.
“Has the government laid out mandatory safety standard operating procedures, such as pre- and post-travel testing, for every one of those individuals?
“Is the government okay with the sprouting of new clusters that will further exhaust our healthcare personnel and frontliners ?” she asked in a statement today.
Meanwhile, touching on restaurants that will allow dining-in in areas under Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan, Rafidah said it is crucial to ensure every staff member is tested regularly and vaccinated as well.
The same, she said, should apply to all economic sectors, which if done carefully could see 100% of employees entering work premises.
“100% of the workers should be allowed, but with mandatory regular testing and vaccination,” she said.
As for schools to reopen soon, Rafidah asked if proper disinfecting measures have been put in place.
Additionally, she said, adults who are involved in school operations must be tested and vaccinated also.
“Unless all the precautions, safeguards, and mandatory processes are in place, schools should remain closed,” she said.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the loosening of certain SOPs for those who have been fully vaccinated.
These relaxations include allowing long-distance couples to cross state or district borders to meet each other, as well as for parents to visit children under 18 years old.
Other perks announced only concern states under Phase 2 of the NRP, which include home quarantines for arrivals to Malaysia and allowing Muslim and non-Muslim houses of worship to accept congregants in line with SOPs.
States under Phase 2 also allow fully vaccinated adults to enjoy non-contact sports and outdoor activities with social distancing. – The Vibes, August 9, 2021
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