GEORGE TOWN – Confusion among food and beverage operators here on Covid-19 standard operating procedures has led to most eateries remaining closed, despite the prime minister’s announcement that dine-in is allowed for fully vaccinated folk in states under Phase 2 and up of the National Recovery Plan.
“I checked with the Penang Island City Council and they said we can operate even if our staff are not fully vaccinated, but the media reported that only those who are fully vaccinated can reopen,” The Shark Food Court owner Ooi Sy Yin told The Vibes.
“Of course, when the announcement was made, most of the tenants at my food court showed interest in reopening, but because we do not fully understand the SOPs, I told them that we might not be able to reopen until the rules are clearer for all of us.
“They all understood, and are willing to wait for more information. It is better than getting compounded.”
She previously applied for all of her 60 tenants and their workers to be vaccinated earlier, and most have received their first jab. Many will get their second shot on August 18.
“Once they are vaccinated, we will wait another 14 days before we can consider reopening the food court.”
Mervyn Wee of Thai Shop said the majority of F&B outlets are not reopening due to the lack of clarity on the SOPs concerning staff being fully vaccinated.
“But, I think many who are desperate because of their depleting funds will reopen.
I want to reopen for dine-in, but I also fear the virus and the possibility of getting compounded if I accidentally breach the SOPs. I think I will play by ear and see how it goes this week.”
Alvin Ooi, owner of the Dragon Noodle and Golden Bowl chain, said he will wait a few weeks to see whether other eateries open for dine-in.
“We are not yet reopening because some of our waiters have received only one vaccine dose. Some have not yet been vaccinated.
“With the increasing cases and presence of the Delta variant, we are afraid to open.
Those in shopping malls may have UV ventilation, but for small shops like us, we can only apply preventive measures, like getting our staff to wear more expensive and safer masks to protect the public and themselves.
“Everyone wants to work, but everyone is afraid of the virus.”
Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Sunday announced that the fully vaccinated in Phase 2 states will be allowed to dine in at eateries starting today.
Those who have received both vaccine doses, who intend to bring their children aged 17 and below to eat at restaurants, have to ensure their kids strictly comply with the SOPs. – The Vibes, August 10, 2021
Additional reporting by Ian McIntyre
