Use PA system to remind bazaar visitors to stay safe

IT’S welcome news that Ramadan bazaars are back after a long break. This signals the beginning of a slow and partial return to normalcy.

But it also means we have to be extra careful, especially as we are not seeing any let-up in the number of daily Covid-19 infections. In fact, public health experts have said that a fourth wave is imminent if there is a lapse in compliance with standard operating procedures (SOP).

Therefore, it is of utmost importance to strictly comply with all

SOP as crowds patronise the many stalls at the bazaars.

Although the authorities have taken measures to restrict the flow of people at these bazaars, more could be done to keep reminding everybody of the need to comply with the SOP.

Reminding the public is of utmost importance. Other than assigning police and Rela personnel to monitor the crowds, I would like to suggest that the parties overseeing the operations of the bazaars install a public address (PA) system on site and periodically broadcast messages reminding everybody to maintain physical distancing, among others.

PA systems are not difficult to set up and generally do not require much maintenance. As such, they would be very effective means of reminding the public to comply with SOP.

Alternatively, officials from City Hall Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) could use megaphones to keep reminding the rakyat to wear masks and keep their distance while buying their favourite fare for breaking fast.

Another effective way would be for shoppers to plan ahead on what they want to buy and to limit their time at the bazaar. If they spent 20 minutes browsing the stalls previously, perhaps they should try to limit their stay to 10 minutes. This can be done by heading straight for the relevant stalls and then leaving the area as soon as possible. If everybody follows these rules, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri can be fully celebrated by all.

TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE Chairman Alliance For Safe Community