By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Aug 26: The Penghulu and Ketua Kampung (village chief) of Kampung Bungey Hulu and Hilir are not to blame for the recent Betong cluster, says the couple of a wedding ceremony held on July 30 and 31 that sparked the Bungey 2 Cluster.
Admitting their negligence for holding a social gathering when it is prohibited, the couple released a statement of apology to ask for forgiveness from all those involved especially the community leaders who were accused of not carrying out their duties.
“Representing myself, my wife and both sides of our families, we would like to publicly apologise to all residents in Kampung Debak and Tuie, as well as those affected by the Bungey 2 Cluster.
“Apart from that, I would also like to apologise to the Penghulu, KK Bungey Hulu and Bungey Hilir who have been receiving criticism because of this incident.
“I also admit that our mistake for not referring to them (of our wedding appreciation event) in advance has invited various reactions saying that they did not monitor activities in the village,” said the couple in the statement dated Aug 23.
Pointing out that the explanation was not to rid themselves of legal consequences, the newlyweds said it was instead to clarify the incident so as to prevent any untrue allegations against the local community leaders.
With the groom’s mother and brother having also tested positive for Covid-19, the couple expressed regrets over the series of events following the gathering which was originally meant for close family members only.
Expressing their understanding that apologies could not reverse the situation, the bridegroom said they were ready to accept any suggestions, criticism, and advice, and hoped for the quick recovery of all related Covid-19 patients.
“I pray for the recovery of those who are positive for Covid-19 and I’m aware that many were affected by the implementation of Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) on Kampung Bungey.
“There was nothing I could do until I wrote this statement. I hope from the bottom of my heart that the villagers can accept my apology, sooner or later, if this is the price I will have to pay.
“I hope this can be a lesson to me and also to others, to be careful in making any decision. Once again, I apologise for our mistake,” said the man.
As of yesterday (Aug 25), the case count for the Bungey 2 Bluster that was declared on Aug 12 has surged to 470 after 61 more positive cases were added overnight, and 380 cases still active.
According to reports by the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), a total of 535 individuals have been screened, of which only 23 tested negative and 42 are awaiting lab test results. — DayakDaily
