KUCHING: Local frontliners have pleaded with the Dayak community to strictly comply with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the movement control order (MCO).
While battling against an unseen enemy and looking after the wellbeing of the people, they urged everyone to stay put at home and refrain from visiting one another for Gawai to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) said among the activities during Gawai such as ngabang (house-to-house visiting) as well as other social activities, namely weddings, engagements, makai selamat (thanksgiving ceremonies), river bathing rituals for children, cockfighting, telematches and others are prohibited.
Here are what some of the Dayak frontliners have to say.
Supt Alexson Naga Chabu, Sarawak Traffic Investigation and Enforcement chief
The public is advised to not make movement between districts without getting permission from the police. I would like to urge those who are celebrating Gawai to comply with the SOPs as this is for the health and safety of everyone. Selamat Hari Gawai Dayak, Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai.
Melvin Amuk, Padungan fire station chief
Although the government does not stop us from celebrating Gawai, everyone has to follow the SOPs strictly to prevent the spread of Covid-19. While we are celebrating this festival with caution, we must also be wary of situation that could cause fire. Please look after yourselves and your loved ones, and if you need assistance, we are always ready to help. Here’s also wishing all celebrants a Selamat Hari Gawai.
Mossidi Sin, soldier based in Johor Bharu
I am sad that this is the second year that I am not able to go back to Sibu to celebrate Gawai with my family. But this is the sacrifice I have to make. Therefore, everyone has to make sacrifices so that the battle against this pandemic would be over. Please follow the SOPs, such as practising good hygiene, physical distancing and wearing face masks. Kita jaga kita (we take care of ourselves).
Ivy Maria Christopher, private nurse
Gawai has always been the time for family members to reunite and gather under one roof. Unfortunately, a huge spike in new Covid-19 cases and deaths recently has called for the implementation of the MCO. Thus, it is crucial for everyone, especially those celebrating Gawai to strictly adhere to the SOPs and refrain from visiting friends and families.
