Penang wants another 100 clinics to test foreign workers for Covid-19

GEORGE TOWN – Penang wants the Health Ministry to help the state achieve its aim of having a pool of 200 private clinics to screen its 140,450 registered foreign workers.

Fast-tracked screening will rein in the Covid-19 threat, which has soared to an all-time high, said exco Jagdeep Singh Deo.

Some 100 associates of the Penang Medical Practitioners’ Society, the country’s oldest medical organisation, have pledged to conduct immunisation for free as part of their corporate social responsibility, he said.

He wants another 100 clinics to join the list, and for all of them to participate in the drive to screen foreign workers.

As of today, only 30,000 of Penang’s foreign workers have undergone testing, a worryingly low rate given the state’s increase in coronavirus cases, he said.

Only 51 clinics on the Social Security Organisation panel are appointed to conduct screening, which is not being done quickly enough.

Jagdeep told the media that Penang must defeat the virus.

“This is a war we must win, and at this moment, we are not. It looks to be the other way around. We need to be more disciplined and adhere to the standard operating procedures at all costs and at all times.”

Of the state’s total 5,479 infections as of Wednesday, 41%, or 2,233 cases, are foreigners.

Meanwhile, Penang Island City Council president and Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang urged residents to understand the reason for the closure of all recreational and state parks.

The ruling had been met with frustration, particularly among senior citizens, who wanted to continue jogging and cycling at the Botanical Gardens.

Jagdeep said those unclear on what constitutes an “essential” service can refer to the council through its website, or hotline at 04-263-7637/7000.

Under the movement control order, opticians and household appliance shops are allowed to operate, as are pharmacies, eateries, grocery stores and supermarkets, but only from 6am to 8pm. – The Vibes, January 15, 2021