KUCHING, May 5: Accommodation for Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) medical frontliners to rest during phase 3 and 4 of Movement Control Order (MCO) has been shifted from Riverside Majestic Hotel-Astana Wing to Regatta Suites at Kozi Square.
Minister of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah disclosed that during phase 1 and 2 of the Movement Control Order (MCO), the provision of these rest facilities was at Riverside Majestic Hotel-Astana Wing, under the sponsorship of CKH Realty Group, starting from March 24 to April 14.
“The total number of frontliners given these resting areas is on average about 150 persons per night. The maximum number of rooms required at one time does reach to 75 rooms with a maximum number of 240 occupants; but the minimum number of rooms is always at 50 rooms. The total cost of the accommodation sponsored was approximately RM120,000,” Fatimah revealed in a statement.
However, during phase 3 and 4 of the MCO, the rest accommodation had to be moved to Regatta Suites in Kozi Square as Riverside Majestic Hotel has declined to extend its sponsorship.
The sponsorship by CKH Realty Group also ended on April 14.
“This move, effective MCO phase 3 from April 14 to 28 was approved by the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) on April 13 and all costs amounting to RM107,100, will be financed by the Sarawak government.
“The total number of rooms is 90 and the total number of occupants is 180 persons at its maximum. This service, as approved by SDMC on April 27, will continue for the next phase of MCO from April 29 to May 12, with a total allocation of RM107,100,” Fatimah added.
She also explained that the ministry was tasked to provide rest accommodation for SGH doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers during the four phases of the MCO.
“This was upon request by the SGH medical team due to safety and security of the staff and family members, as they were the most vulnerable, having to handle Covid-19 patients. Due to their tight shift duties and distance from their homes, it is also convenient if they move in and out from the resting place,” Fatimah added. — DayakDaily
