THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) have doubled their efforts in the fight against Covid-19 as a record 691 cases had been reported in the country yesterday, including three in Penang.
So far until yesterday, the total number of active cases in the country was 2,936.
MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang and MBSP mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud said they have both deployed more enforcement officers to monitor public places, especially wet markets.
While enforcement action is important, both mayors are appealing to the public to observe the standard operating procedure (SOP) in order to successfully contain the spread of the virus.
“The most important thing for the public is to really take care of themselves and their surrounding people by observing simple SOPs like physical distancing, washing hands regularly and avoiding crowded areas.
“Prevention is paramount. Try to avoid gatherings if possible. If those activities are not important, please postpone them,” Yew told Buletin Mutiara in an interview today.
“The situation is a bit worrying. We will keep a close eye on the development and continue to heed the advice of the National Security Council and Health Ministry.
“We will enhance our enforcement action together with the police and all other frontliners.
So, we will be very stringent and close down premises for seriously violating the SOP. If they repeat the offence, we will revoke their licence.”
Yew said he had instructed council staff who had returned from Sabah not to go the council for any activity or meeting. They are, however, advised to attend virtual meeting only.
Yew also advised those who are unwell to seek treatment or isolate themselves.
A total of 36 premises in Penang had been closed down, with 13 by MBPP and 23 by the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP).
MBPP and MBSP had achieved over 99% compliance rate after checking over 330,000 premises and 570,000 premises respectively.
Rozali said the people should not panic but must strictly follow the SOP.
“Do not think that the SOP is to inconvenience you. Everyone must take it as a social responsibility,” he said.
“We’re going to hold joint operations with the police and Health Department personnel once in two weeks in all districts. As a team, the joint operation will more effective.
“The police have the power to issue RM1,000 summons to any SOP violator, the health authorities the power to close down the premises and MBSP the power to revoke the owner’s licence.”
Rozali said MBSP has also increased the number of enforcement officers from three to six at each market place in Seberang Perai.
He also advised Seberang Perai residents to do any transactions with MBSB via online, using the cyber counter catering to 100 services.
On the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, beginning on Oct 17 and ending on Oct 25, Rozali said it is important for the stall operators and visitors to adhere to the SOPs.
He said if necessary, Rela personnel must be hired to help control the crowd.
Story by K.H. Ong