ASAJAYA: Any plans to hosting open houses for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration should be carefully considered.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said while big-scale open houses should be given careful consideration, households could still receive guests who include close families and friends.
“We rely on the National Security Council (NSC), the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MoH) and the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) to announce whether an open house can be held or not.
“For me if the plan only involves family members and close friends, it can be made possible but if it is made on a large scale such as in the hall that involves thousands of visitors, this matter should be considered,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after completing the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (PEMADAM) Sarawak lambuk porridge presentation ceremony at SMK Hajah Laila Taib, Jalan Kampung Tambirat, here on Wednesday (Apr 6).
He said a large-scale open house might result in the spread of COVID-19 as it still existed within the community, and urged all parties to take extra precautions.
Abdul Karim also said his ministry had to consider the announcement from NSC, MoH as well as SDMC before they could host an open house for the state-level raya celebration.
“Sarawak does take such approach. I see that we still need to be vigilant against the epidemic and always monitor ourselves as well as our families, including always using half-face masks.
“We see that many have returned to normal but we are still advised to use face masks and ensure that social distancing is always practised.
“In this regard, we want to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri on a moderate scale, including in terms of invitations,” he said.
