GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government is tightening existing standard operating procedures (SOPs) in order to safeguard the health of residents.
Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman, Jagdeep Singh Deo (pix), said of the 61 Covid-19 SOPS drawn up by the Federal Government, Penang will be strengthening five SOPs for the construction sector, restaurant dining, hair salons, wet/night markets and recreational parks.
“An extra SOP was specially developed for stalls selling seasonal fruit like durian. All six SOPs have been implemented by the state government since the conditional movement control order (CMCO) was imposed,” he said.
The updates include allowing just 1/3 the usual capacity for places of worship and restaurants, requiring food and eating utensils to be brought to the diner, those aged above 60 to make a hair salon appointment and the utilisation of traffic cones and floor marking tape.
“After attending a meeting with the state National Security Council (MKN), National Unity and Integration Department (JPNIN) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) this morning I am happy to report that the Federal Government has no issues with the six SOPs.
“Therefore, as advised by the state MKN, we will formally inform the Federal Government of the reasons for tightening and increasing the SOPs,” Jagdeep said.
He thanked Penangites for the 100 per cent compliance with the face mask ruling at 24 wet markets after it was made mandatory on Aug 1.
Penang has not reported any coronavirus cases since May 4 and remains a Covid-19 green zone. — Bernama
