KUCHING, May 12: Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth is reminding all Dayaks in Covid-19 red zones to postpone returning to longhouses this coming Gawai to curb the probably spread of the virus in the community.
PRS youth chief Datuk Snowdan Lawan said daily reports on Covid-19 in Sarawak was “alarming, scary and unpredictable”, with rising numbers and fatalities almost on a daily basis.
“That leaves us with no choice but to stay safe by staying at home,” said Snowdan in a press statement today.
Snowdan, who is also Balai Ringin assemblyman, said if Dayaks in red zone areas like Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri choose to go back to their longhouses, the health of rural longhouse folks may at risk.
“Don’t take any chances. Covid-19 has no mercy. It’s us who determine for ourselves whether to go merrymaking at longhouses during this coming Gawai or risk being infected or infecting others.
“It may be a good idea to forego returning to longhouses for Gawai this year. We need not end up regretting that our ageing parents or relatives succumb to infections.
“You may miss or forego Gawai this year, but another season awaits you next year. Life is precious and health is wealth, better be late than never,” said Snowdan who is also Youth and Sports Assistant Minister.
Meanwhile, he also reminded those in longhouses be mindful of unknown visitors and probable unknown Covid-19 carriers.
“Confine your reunion or ngabang to within the family circle. Avoid large gatherings and don’t overdo merrymaking.
“Stick to and follow the SOPs (standard operating procedures) prescribed by the government authorities and practice good personal hygiene to curb the spread of this pandemic and secure community immunity,” said Snowdan.
He reminded all that on Monday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin had announced national Movement Control Order (MCO) from May 12 until June 7, 2021 while Sarawak is under Conditional MCO.
“Anyone found flouting the MCO by inter-district or inter-state crossing will be subject to a fine. So don’t jeopardise your situation by being issued with hefty compound tickets or fines for a cause you can forego,” said Snowdan. — DayakDaily
