[ad_1]
PETALING JAYA: The new Covid-19 SOPs for the upcoming Chinese New Year appear to have sparked criticism from politicians who criticize regulations that are in place to restrict family reunions and cross-border travel.
Deputy Minister of National Unity Datuk Seri Ti Lian Ker said the government appeared to have made a mistake in its announcement, adding that amendments should be made.
“Someone has made a mistake here. This SOP must be quickly withdrawn and rectified,” he said in a Facebook post on Thursday (Feb 4), attaching a picture of the SOPs.
However, Ti did not elaborate on what the error could be.
Opposition leaders also weighed in on the new standard operating procedures, and Selangor State exco member Datuk Teng Chang Khim questioned why factories, markets, night markets and hypermarkets were allowed to operate.
Teng also joked that perhaps the family members could now “visit” each other and have their annual reunion dinner at the night market.
“It is intended to be a satire against the illogical ruling. Please don’t go for malam for dinner and CNY celebration. Comply with SOP, stay home, stay safe,” he wrote.
This Chinese New Year, which falls on February 12, will be different from the celebration of previous years, with reunion dinners only allowed between family members living in the same house.
House-to-house visits and cross-border travel will not be allowed. Prayers in the temple are also restricted, except for five of the temple committee members.
Standard operating procedures also appear to have generated a conflicting response from the public.
While some are critical of the new standard operating procedures, there are also Malaysians who say that cross-border travel should at least be restricted to curb Covid-19, which has seen all-time highs in recent weeks.
“I should be more strict during the holidays. If the number of cases is so high during Hari Raya, I don’t want to go to Raya either. Better to stay at home,” Miera Rahim said on Facebook.
Facebook user David Ho also chimed in, saying that if interstate travel is allowed, it could create an influx of travel among Malaysians during the Christmas season.
“That is the main concern. Despite the leniency, we should stay home as much as we can to prevent the virus from spreading.”
[ad_2]
