SIBU, Aug 4: As the wearing of face mask is now compulsory, most people hope its ceiling price could be further reduced to lessen their burden.
The government has implemented the ruling in order to curb the spread of Covid-19. It is enforced effective August 1 and is applicable to crowded public places where social distancing could not be practised.
This includes public transport, markets, tourist areas, and cinema. Those caught without it would be fined RM1,000.
An insurance agent, who wished to be identified only as Shandra, 45, called for further reduction in the price as “not everyone can afford to pay it.”
She said though the price for the items is already much cheaper than during the MCO period, it will still burden the poor.
“Everybody, including the poor need to put on face masks when they go out. Since it is compulsory, the price needs to be further reduced,” she said.
“We have to use between one to two boxes a month especially for the three of us which include my husband and my sister who have to go out to work. My two children will only wear it if they are going to school,” she said.
It costs her family RM70 for a box of 100 pieces type.
A risk management surveyor, Jeffery Anthony, 53, concurred with Shandra. Jeffery’s thought is for the poor.
“The ruling is not a burden to me as my company is providing us with face masks every day. The price should be further lowered to RM1. Of course, if the government can provide it free to the people especially to the poor, it will be much better,” he said.
His family spent just RM30 for face masks a month.
Account officer, Tay Kim Sing, 54, however thought otherwise. He said a number of places are now selling cheaper face masks.
“There are now many avenues such as online where one can get affordable masks. Some sellers are even selling at half price on an online platform,” he said.
On the ruling, Tay felt it is inconvenient at times.
“Sometimes I have forgotten to wear and have to go back to the car to get it. The ruling creates fear in us. Other than that I think it’s good to wear it to protect ourselves,” he concluded. – DayakDaily
