SANDAKAN – After authorities eased up on Covid-19 restrictions, visitors flocked to Taman Harmoni People's Housing Project here to offer food and other essential items.
They caused a congestion at the entrance until noon when Rela (People's Volunteer Corps) personnel allowed the visitors into the compound that is under enhanced movement control order (EMCO) since October 23.
Previously, the Sandakan Disaster Management Committee did not allow residents to leave their units and for visitors to leave items at the main entrance.
This morning, visitors had to fill out personal details before entering but the process took too long as the number of people grew.
To alleviate congestion, the visitors were led to the community hall.
Resident Rohana Asmael, 33, said the move to allow visitors in is not a good one in light of the Covid-19 situation.
“Previously, Rela personnel would help distribute items to each unit but it took a long time.
“With residents unable to leave the house, most of the items we asked for, such as fresh fish and meat, would go bad by the time we get them in the afternoon.”
She said there are small home-based groceries stores at the PPR but they are selling items such as diapers, milk powder and dry food at a much higher price.
She hopes that the authorities will arrange for heads of families in Taman Harmoni to go out to buy groceries at the market and for them to go to the bank once a week.
“I don’t care if we have to go in a police truck. The Prihatin aid money has been banked in after we were put under EMCO. A lot of people need to get their money.”
Taman Harmoni has 870 units and 4,481 residents. – The Vibes, October 27, 2020
