Please follow SOP, eateries urge patrons
PETALING JAYA: Restaurant operators are worried about the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in the country, and are hoping that customers work with them to fight the spread of the disease.
Various associations representing operators have reminded their members to be vigilant and to enforce standard operating procedure (SOP) set by the government.
Malaysia Singapore Coffeeshop Proprietors’ General Association president Datuk Ho Su Mong said his members had been instructed to be careful and to implement the SOP because the current situation was very worrying.
This includes taking temperature, implementing social distancing measures, and recording details of customers.
He said a lax attitude could lead to worse eventualities such as another wave of Covid-19 cases.
“We have to be strict on this, especially social distancing.In a compact shop, we have to ensure people don’t come into physical contact with one another,” he said.
He also hoped that customers would cooperate with the eateries, as there was a minority who did not adhere to the SOP.
“I hope the public will understand us. They may not like it and end up quarrelling with our members or workers,” he said.
Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association president Datuk Jawahar Ali Taib Khan said that their members were reminded to be extra careful with the rising number of cases.
Besides stressing on hygiene, Jawahar also said the restaurants were reminded to take care of the welfare of workers as well.
“The workers are on the front lines. We are concerned about them and the customers.
“We have to be strict in ensuring the SOP is followed,” he said, adding that many customers were cooperative.
He added that the majority of customers don’t stay for a long time compared to previously, with not many bringing their children as well.
Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association (Primas) president T. Muthusamy said that restaurant owners had been told to be careful and avoid negligence in following the SOP.
He said that some customers who were not from the same family but came in the same vehicle might insist on sitting closely to one another.
“At the back of our minds, we must be alert that this is not a regular period of time. You are responsible for yourself and the people around you,” he said.
Muthusamy also said that customers had a right to tell owners if they were negligent on their part.
“We have to work hand in hand. We cannot compromise on government regulations because there are lives at stake,” he said.