ALOR STAR – Dissatisfied with poor standard operating procedure (SOP) compliance at Ramadan bazaars in the state, Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said he will not hesitate to shut down bazaars if new Covid-19 clusters emerge.
“I am disappointed with the organisation of all Ramadan bazaars in the state,” he said in a Facebook post, adding that reports he received from local authorities reveal disappointing SOP compliance.
“Brothers and sisters who visit Ramadan bazaars in Kedah are requested to comply with the SOPs set by the National Security Council (NSC).
“Reports received from local authorities so far are very disappointing… as SOPs are not obeyed by most traders and visitors.
“Any negligence and forgetfulness of SOPs can trigger a new Covid-19 cluster, which in turn will lead to the closure of all Ramadan bazaars throughout the state, and this is the source of livelihood for our relatives during the month of Ramadan.”
In GEORGE TOWN, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state government will continue to monitor Ramadan bazaars to ensure SOP compliance.
However, he said, a decision will be made with the NSC if a sudden climb in Covid-19 cases happens in Penang.
“We need to monitor the situation, even though Ramadan bazaars are allowed. I believe NSC will also monitor coronavirus cases in each state.”
Last week, Kelantan cancelled Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars throughout the state following an increase in Covid-19 cases.
Similar action is also taken at several locations in Kuching, Sarawak. – The Vibes, April 15, 2021
