KUCHING: The social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic would be long-lasting and it is difficult to put a dollar figure on it, said Sarawak Business Federation secretary-general Jonathan Chai Voon Tok.

He said this year would be remembered as an extraordinary year for everyone globally due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We have all experienced lockdown for most of the year and our lifestyle has been grossly affected and transformed,” he said when reflecting on the year.

He pointed out that meetings and studying were mostly conducted online, while travelling and gatherings had been very much restricted.

“The economy is badly hit, some have lost their jobs, and some have even lost their lives.

“Just pray that with the introduction of the Covid-19 vaccines, things will slowly and steadily get back to normal and the economy will recover by next year,” said Chai.

In the meantime, he urged everyone to stay safe and healthy.