TAWAU – More than 4,000 families in Taman Semarak, Merotai, here are running out of food since being barred from leaving their homes due to the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) imposed on Monday.
Merotai assemblyman Sarifuddin Hata urged the Disaster Operation Control Centre to step in, saying the grocery stores in the residential area have limited stock and are unable to cater to all residents for the duration of the lockdown till November 8.
“They could allow a limited number of residents to go out to get essential items and food at the closest supermarket or wet market, or set up a mobile mini mart or wet market in Taman Semarak.
“The residents are desperate. We also do not know if the EMCO will be extended.”
He said the Disaster Operation Control Centre has appointed several representatives to take food deliveries from the gate, but this is not enough for the large number of families in the area.
“I also hope that food baskets from the government will be distributed to the residents as soon as possible, and without a hitch. Whether or not the EMCO is extended, food is essential.”
In Sandakan, MP Vivian Wong urged Taman Harmoni residents to be patient, following Tuesday’s incident where fresh produce went bad as people delivering the items were forced to wait a long time at the gate.
She said she has received a lot of complaints on the matter.
“I have contacted Civil Defence Force personnel about this, and they will try their best to solve this issue by arranging for block chiefs to receive and deliver items. They will also add two lorries, so there will be a total of four lorries sending items this Friday.”
The Taman Harmoni flats, with 870 units and 4,481 residents, have been under the EMCO since last Friday. – The Vibes, October 30, 2020
