SIBU, July 16: The public is asked to remain vigilant as the Health Ministry (MOH) has already detected the presence of the Covid-19 Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which is said to be easily transmissible.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government II Michael Tiang Ming Tee said compliance with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) should continue at all times.
“A new variant has emerged in our lives. Continue to abide by the SOPs that have been outlined by the government. This can protect yourself and others,” he told the media at the Malaysian Civil Defense Force (APM) Sibu District ‘Frontliner’ Appreciation Dinner last night.
The Pelawan assemblyman also expressed his appreciation to all the APM frontliners who have worked hard to serve during the country’s Movement Control Order (MCO) period and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Earlier in his speech, Tiang said APM is now known as a department that has an important role in disaster and emergency management.
“Many are still unclear of the duties of the civil defense force duties and as such, some still consider their role to be simply catching dangerous animals, when their real responsibility is much broader than that. This perception to some extent has drowned out the real role its members play in keeping the community safe.
“Among the main objectives of the APM is to reduce the risk of disasters by providing shelter during disasters, and responding to disasters by providing emergency services,” he explained.
According to him, the most important function of APM is to perform rescue duties, provide protection, humanitarian services from any enemy threats, disasters, emergencies, assess and disseminate information, advisory services including warnings to the public regarding any enemy threats, emergencies and disasters.
He assured that he would help the Sibu District APM to the best of his ability to use its resources to further strengthen the agency.
The event, organised by the Sibu District APM and the Sibu Civil Defense Recreation Association (PURPAS), was attended by about 100 frontliners in Sibu, Selangau and Kanowit District APMs.
Also present were Sarawak APM director Abdul Wahab Ibrahim, Sibu Division Resident representative Awang Ali Borhan, Sibu District APM Officer Frankie John Jawan and PURPAS Chairman Jordan Lau Teck Yu. — DayakDaily
