GEORGE TOWN – Returnees to Penang from Sabah are “strongly encouraged” to undergo the Covid-19 swab test upon arrival, said Chow Kon Yeow today.
The chief minister, in a statement, said the decision was made at a Penang Security Special Committee meeting chaired by him.
“This decision is the result of a report on the latest Covid-19 situation in Penang, namely the detection of the Ara cluster on September 20.
“All parties returning from Sabah are strongly encouraged to undergo swab testing at government clinics or private health facilities.”
There are two patients, both locals, in the Ara cluster.
The index case is a 44-year-old man who tested positive in Sandakan, Sabah, on September 15. He infected a relative, who tested positive four days later.
Chow said the committee meeting also agreed to allow entertainment activities to be held until midnight and convenience stores to open until 2am.
“Besides that, the meeting agreed to allow the Nine Emperor Gods Festival celebration, with dine-in facilities to be placed in tents provided by organisers.”
Health and safety standard operating procedures must be observed, he said.
Penang has five active coronavirus cases out of a total of 143 infections, and two deaths. – The Vibes, 25 September 2020
