GEORGE TOWN – Penang is taking steps to test about 130,000 foreign workers from all sectors for Covid-19, as directed by the federal government after a surge of cases in the state.
Speaking to The Vibes, Penang State Executive Councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo said that one round of swab tests had been done in April for foreign workers at construction sites.
However, this time, screening will involve workers from all other sectors as well.
“During the first round, it took about a month for us to test 15,000 workers,” he said.
“We had a specific place dedicated for testing. This time, there will be more places because the numbers are bigger. So now, they (authorities) are proceeding with it.
“I will be making a statement in one of the areas on Tuesday (tomorrow) to give an update on the status.
“This (call for Covid-19 swab tests) is a federal government decision. It is currently going through implementation in Penang because it was one of four states identified for testing."
Asked if employers should start encouraging their workers to work from home as the surge of cases is mostly from industrial areas, he said no statement on working from home will be made unless there is official information from the Health Ministry.
He added that the ministry would not specify exact areas where there are cases as it may cause panic.
That is why it is called a cluster in a certain area.
Jabil Penang temporarily suspended its operations in Plant 1 at Hilir Sungai Keluang 1, Bayan Lepas, two days ago, following a Covid-19 assessment by the ministry on November 25.
More than 2,000 Jabil employees have so far been tested.
Penang recorded 46 new cases yesterday up till noon, and 92 the day before, with 70 from the Damar Laut cluster alone.
In response to the spike, a quarantine and low-risk centre was opened at the Caring Society Complex near General Hospital.
According to Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, the 90-bed treatment centre can be expanded to 190 beds as and when needed.
The centre is equipped with X-ray and computed radiography systems that allow early and accurate detection of those at risk of getting Covid-19.
Some 100 chest X-rays have been taken so far. – The Vibes, November 30, 2020
