KUCHING, April 7: The Stutong Ramadan bazaar has been called off for the second year in a row amidst fears of Covid-19 spreading.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) made the announcement in a statement today explaining that the physical bazaar that would typically attract a large crowd would not continue this year given the Covid-19 situation in Sarawak.
“Due to the surge of Covid-19 cases in Sarawak, MBKS has decided to cancel the Ramadan bazaar which is scheduled to be held at the parking lots next to Stutong Community Market.
“MBKS decided to take this precaution to avoid huge crowds that may risk the public and the possibility of the spread of Covid-19 which would hamper the government’s efforts to eradicate the pandemic completely.”
MBKS acting city secretary Zainab Marzali reminded the public that it is every citizen’s responsibility to strictly comply with the current standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines throughout the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) period which has been extended until April 12.
Meanwhile, the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) has also today cancelled all three Ramadan bazaars scheduled to be held at Satok, Semarak and Sukma Ria.
The month-long Ramadan bazaars traditionally held during the Muslim fasting month is just a week away.
It is one of the most anticipated events every year not only by the Muslim community but also for communities of other religions in Sarawak.
The State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) had on March 25 given the green light for the bazaars to operate according to strict compliance with SOP.
However, as Sarawak has continued to record a high number of Covid-19 cases and the emergence of new clusters linked to social and gathering activities recently, local authorities have decided to halt the bazaars yet again. — DayakDaily
