KUCHING, March 17: All government offices and business premises in Sarawak including factories, except essential services, are to be closed for two weeks to curb the Covid-19 outbreak following a spike in the number of cases.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who made the announcement earlier tonight said the drastic two-week measure effective from tomorrow (March 18) until March 31 is meant to limit movement of people in the state to slow the spread of Covid-19.
“In view that cases of Covid-19 infection have increased dramatically, the Sarawak government has decided to take stronger action to curb the Covid-19 outbreak rather than (it being allowed to) continue to spread as decided at the State Security Council (MKN) meeting,” he told a press conference at Wisma Bapa Malaysia.
The measures were in accordance with the Movement Control Order announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 and the Police Act 1967.
“For the next two weeks, government offices are closed with only government departments and agencies that provide essential services allowed to operate.
“Business premises including factories are closed except for business premises running ‘essential services’,” he said.
Abang Johari disclosed that only factories in Samalaju and Samajaya Hi-Tech Park, and plywood mills are allowed to operate with minimal staff only.
Restaurants and eateries could remain open but the public is not allowed to eat and drink on the premises.
“People are allowed to go out of their way to buy everyday necessities and to get only essential goods and services,” he added.
Abang Johari warned that any party which fails to comply with this directive may be subject to imprisonment or fine, or both. — DayakDaily
