KUCHING: State Ministry of Utilities issued a media statement today to address the recent rise of Covid-19 positive cases among workers in the utilities sector across different divisions in Sarawak.
Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said that a total of 113 staff members from the respective agencies under the ministry have tested positive for the virus since the implementation of the movement control order (MCO) in March last year.
“We are thankful that most have recovered while others are still under quarantine and medical care. Our thoughts and prayers are with them and with all who have been affected,” he said.
He added that while the trend is concerning, he assured the public that his ministry and the relevant agencies are managing the Covid-19 transmission risks with great care and diligence.
“We are also mitigating the impact on our projects and operations while prioritising the safety of all personnel, contractor workers and the general public whom we serve,” said Rundi.
He then pointed out that all their electricity, water and gas agencies’ offices, plants and project sites have stringent in-house standard operating procedures (SOPs) with highly prudent precautionary measures in compliance with directives issued by State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and the government Covid-19 SOPs.
“The respective agencies SOPs include medical emergency responses for rapid deployment to first of all break the potential transmission of the virus and secure operations, and where we have recorded positive cases, to contain the situation and prevent further escalation by isolation and immediate testing.
“Upon detection of positive cases at these premises, first of all, we secure and close the premises and cordon off project sites for cleaning and sanitisation.
“Next, we ensure that all workers who are considered close contacts to undergo Covid-19 swab tests and self-quarantine.
“Finally, we activate business continuity plans to ensure minimal disruption to operations and services.
“Any Covid-19 related decisions are made in compliance with all directives and guidelines issued by the authorities,” said Rundi.
He also said that while movement restrictions have impeded work and may lead to delays in some of project delivery timelines, the ministry remained confident that they will overcome the setbacks through their emergency response and recovery plans.
“We will continue to deliver our main objective which is to ensure adequate, reliable, quality, efficient, affordable, and safe water, energy and gas for industrial, commercial and domestic.
“Please be vigilant in the fight against Covid-19 and stay safe,” advised Rundi.
