Cement resolve to fight Covid-19

THE recent spike in Covid-19 cases nationwide is worrisome.

On Friday, Malaysia recorded 287 new Covid-19 cases, the highest daily figure since the movement control order started in March. The previous day, the number was 260, matching almost all of the earlier records.

According to the Health Ministry, the new cases were all locally transmitted, linked mostly to people who travelled to the peninsula from Sabah’s hotspots – Lahad Datu, Tawau and Semporna.

But the Sabah wave did not come without a warning. It was first detected about a month ago when the Benteng Lahad Datu cluster emerged.

It originated from two undocumented Filipinos immigrants who tested positive at the Lahad Datu police headquarters lockup on Aug 31.

The disease spread to Tawau prison, some 150km away, after several inmates with travel history to the HQ also tested positive for Covid-19.

The coronavirus then spread like wildfire to other parts of Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna in a matter of days.

The alarming spread is now happening in the peninsula, and it all adds up to the fact that we have become complacent about remaining vigilant.

Malaysia’s comparatively good track record in managing the spread of the disease may have contributed to that complacence.

So the lesson to learn from this resurgence is that Malaysians cannot be lackadaisical about adhering to the Health Ministry’s standard operating procedure.

Here’s a reminder, according to the ministry: The 3Cs – avoiding Crowded places, Confined spaces and Close conversations.

And the 3Ws – Wash hands frequently with soap and water or sanitise them, Wear face masks in public areas or if symptomatic, and Warn self and others not to shake hands or touch others.

We must also practise good coughing and sneezing etiquette, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, stay at home and seek treatment if symptomatic. The public and businesses must play their roles and be extra vigilant to keep the community and country safe.

There is no excuse for not wearing a mask in public, for not leaving contact details (and for businesses not to make sure they get those details), for not washing and sanitising hands regularly.

The Health Ministry, enforcement agencies and other related government bodies involved in fighting Covid-19 must take a tougher stand too.

While some decisions may be unpopular and could put some authorities or individuals in a tight spot, they have to bite the bullet and take the strong measures needed to ensure the well-being of Malaysians and the country. There are no two ways about this.

We cannot afford to have the economy come to a crashing halt again. So Malaysians must take a deep breath and reaffirm a vow to fight this disease and back the government if stronger measures have to be taken to tackle the crisis.

Let’s keep Malaysia safe.