KUCHING: There are mixed reactions from the public on whether the government should enforce the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) in Sarawak.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the government may consider enforcing EMCO in certain areas in the state if the number of Covid-19 cases continues to increase.
When interviewed by New Sarawak Tribune, several people understood why the EMCO might be enforced.
But at the same time, they were also worried for the impact it would have on the economy, unemployment, and many more.
Jonathan Chai, Sarawak Business Federation secretary-general
It would be understandable if the government enforces EMCO here. However, I believe they would be cautious in coming to that decision as it would greatly impact the economy which is only beginning to get back on its feet. We need to remind business operators and the general public to strictly observe the standard operating procedure (SOP) and adapt to the new norms. If it does happen, the economy would likely suffer a severe setback in its recovery as a lot of businesses would probably not be able to withstand yet another blow of losses arisen from their closure of operation.
Mohd Ibrahim Nordin, Malaysian Association of Hotels Sarawak chairman
The tourism industry will continue to suffer if EMCO is implemented. The hotels are struggling to recover despite the positive support from the Tourism Ministry, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and stakeholders. Many hotels are running below 20 percent and some smaller hotels are running only single digit occupancy. We believe the recovery period will take at least one to two years.
Alfie Allin, 35, office assistant
I totally agree with enforcing EMCO in several areas in Sarawak, especially hotspot areas. We do not want the virus to spread out to green zones and the earlier we impose EMCO, the faster we can stop the spread of the virus and the faster the economy can recover. Prevention is always the best before things worsen.
Arnida Mohan, 31, private employee
I agree that EMCO should be enforced as the situation does not seem to be improving. We need to break the chain of infection by staying home and only going out when necessary. We all have a role to play to remind each other to take care of ourselves, those around us and be more responsible.
Catohrinner Joyce Guri, 31, unemployed
If EMCO or another lockdown is implemented, more people will lose their jobs and source of income. I am about to start a new job soon and I am afraid that if the government decides to enforce EMCO, there will be further delay. I understand that EMCO is for everyone’s good, but at the same time it is going to cause more unemployment. If unemployment is not tackled and people are in debt, this will lead to depression which is not good for our mental health.
