MIRI, Feb 5: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew hopes the federal government can quickly review and amend its standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the Chinese New Year celebration.
The announcement on Covid-19 SOPs for the Chinese New Year celebration was made by Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob yesterday.
“We fully understand the federal government’s intention is to curb the spread of Covid-19 but the SOPs seriously have to make sense and fitting with the Chinese cultural celebration.
“I hope the federal government can quickly review and amend their SOPs for the Chinese New Year celebration,” said Ting, who is also State Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in a statement today.
He also expressed gratitude that the Sarawak government, through Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) did not follow or implement the federal SOP for Chinese New Year celebration especially the new year eve’s reunion dinner, which is an auspicious evening for the Chinese.
“We are indeed very fortunate that the SOPs by our SDMC allow family reunion dinner on the eve, February 11, though limiting to only 20 family members living nearby to celebrate together at home but still a wonderful and meaningful reunion dinner.
“We know we are all looking forward to get together during the Chinese New Year as many had not been able to meet face to face for almost a year since the nationwide Movement Control Order (MCO) is enforced.
“Nevertheless, we sincerely hope and urge everyone will continue to look after the safety of yourself, your loved ones and continue to practise the SOPs laid down by SDMC during the Chinese New Year celebrations,” he added. — DayakDaily
