KUCHING: Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian yesterday listed three important things that the public must observe in coping with the Covid-19 outbreak in the state.
They are, according to him, social distancing, practising good personal hygiene and avoiding big gatherings.
“For personal hygiene, some people talk about hand sanitisers. But if you can wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, that is just as good as using hand sanitisers,” he said.
Dr Sim spoke at a press conference after conducting a visit alongside Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Minister Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng to a supermarket at The Spring shopping mall here on Saturday.
Dr Sim also explained that face masks must be used appropriately.
“If you are sick and coughing, use them. If you are not sick or come in contact with those who are infected, you do not have to use them. Those working in hospitals are in the frontlines and are exposed to people that may have Covid-19, so they must use them.
“Also, the most important thing is not the use of the face masks but to avoid touching your face and eyes as this will help spread the virus,” said Dr Sim.
He then proceeded to remind the public to avoid wasting face masks.
“So if you don’t need it, don’t use it. The hospital needs it more than you and me.”
On his advice to avoid big gatherings, Dr Sim was pleased to see that people here had already begun cancelling and postponing events.
“I’m very happy that all the places of worship had taken responsibility to avoid mass gatherings.
“I urge all the big organisations, be it religious or NGOs (non-governmental organisations), to follow the lead of the places of worship and cancel or postpone any big gatherings.
“Big gatherings are defined as more than 250 people, but if the circumstances change, it may be defined to a smaller group,” he clarified.
Dr Sim was confident the Covid-19 pandemic could be overcome through the efforts of the government and the people.
