GEORGE TOWN – Fellow Malaysians are urged to have some self-control to avoid another surge in Covid-19 infections, said Penang’s state-federal pandemic coordinator Steven Sim after the prime minister’s announcement to lift the interstate travel ban.
Sim told The Vibes that Malaysians should heed the lessons of countries that reopened their economies after achieving high vaccination rates, but ended up having to revert to some form of lockdown due to high infection numbers.
“There are many overseas examples, including regional ones. So we cannot slip into complacency despite the resumption of interstate travel and domestic tourism.
“While the government no longer imposes lockdowns, the people must self-regulate by restricting unnecessary travel and risks.
“We must observe the standard operating procedures when in public. If we have to go out, we must be aware to self-test if we have symptoms.”
Speaking more on his immediate role, Sim said he wants to ensure the healthcare system is ready to deal with any rise in cases, especially severe ones.
“We have 101 ICU beds and more beds in Covid-19 wards. A virtual covid-19 assessment centre is also in place. We are trying to activate a home care programme wherein private general practitioners are mobilised to assist home monitoring.
“I have also requested the Health Ministry to speed up delivering third-dose vaccination for frontliners and vulnerable groups such as the elderly in Penang.”
As of noon yesterday, close to 70% of the adult population in Penang registered under MySejahtera have been fully vaccinated.
There are now 6,881 active cases, 86.4% of which are under home quarantine, 6.9% are in low-risk quarantine centres, 6.6% have been hospitalised, 0.7% are in intensive care, and 0.4% are ventilated.
The death toll in Penang remained at 1,460 for two days.
Meanwhile, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry called on all tourism stakeholders in Langkawi to join certification programmes via Travel Safe Alliance (TSA) Malaysia.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said in a virtual launch that TSA can boost traveller confidence that the hospitality industry in Langkawi is safe.
Among the first organisations to have embraced the TSA initiatives is the Malaysian Association of Hotels. – The Vibes, October 10, 2021
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